bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiwavelength Constraints on the Local Black Hole Occupation Fraction
Authors: Burke Colin J. , Natarajan Priyamvada , Baldassare Vivienne F. , Geha Marla
Published: December 2024

The fraction of dwarf galaxies hosting central, intermediate-mass black holes (IMBHs) at low redshifts is an important observational probe of black hole seeding at high redshift. Detections of nuclear accretion signatures in dwarf galaxies provides strong evidence for the presence of these IMBHs. We develop a Bayesian model to infer the black hole occupation fraction assuming a broken power-law Eddington ratio distribution function. Our approach accounts for nondetections, incompleteness, and contamination from star-forming-related emission. We apply this model to galaxies with X-ray data from the Chandra Source Catalog at distances <50 Mpc, radio data from the Very Large Array Sky Survey at <50 Mpc, and optical variability data from the Palomar Transient Factory at z < 0.055. We find a black hole occupation fraction of at least 90% at stellar masses of M
⋆ = 108
M
⊙ and at least 39% at M
⋆ = 107
M
⊙ (95% confidence intervals). We show the resulting black hole mass function. These constraints on the IMBH population have implications for the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna mission and for cosmological models of black hole seeding and growth. We also constrain the extremely low-luminosity end (L
bol ≲ 1040 erg s−1) of the active galactic nucleus (AGN) luminosity functions at z = 0. Our AGN luminosity functions are broadly consistent with an extrapolation of the shallow slope of the AGN luminosity functions from previous work.
Microlensing Events in Five Years of Photometry from the Zwicky Transient Facility
Authors: Zhai Ruocheng , Rodriguez Antonio C. , Mao Shude , Lam Casey Y. , Bellm Eric C. , Purdum Josiah , Masci Frank J. , Wold Avery
Published: December 2024

Microlensing has a unique advantage for detecting dark objects in the Milky Way, such as free-floating planets, neutron stars, and stellar-mass black holes. Most microlensing surveys focus on the Galactic bulge, where higher stellar density leads to a higher event rate. However, microlensing events in the Galactic plane have closer lenses and longer timescales, which leads to a greater chance of measuring microlens parallax, providing an additional constraint on the mass of the lens. This work searches for microlensing events in Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) Data Release 17 from 2018 to 2023 in the Galactic plane region. We find 124 high-confidence microlensing events and 54 possible events, all available online (see footnote 11). Thus, with 2 yr of additional ZTF data in DR17, we have more than doubled the number of microlensing events (60) found in the previous 3 yr DR5 search. In the event selection, we use the efficient EventFinder algorithm to detect microlensing signals, which could be used for large data sets such as future ZTF data releases or data from the Rubin Observatory Legacy Survey of Space and Time. Using detection efficiencies of ZTF fields obtained from catalog-level simulations, we calculate the mean Einstein timescale to be 〈t
E〉 = 51.7 ± 3.3 days, smaller than previous results of the Galactic plane but within 1.5σ. We also calculate optical depths and event rates, although some caution is needed due to the use of visual inspection when creating our final sample. Spectroscopy of three possible candidates confirms their microlensing nature.
The Relation between AGN and Host-galaxy Properties in the JWST Era. I. Seyferts at Cosmic Noon are Obscured and Disturbed
Authors: Bonaventura Nina , Lyu 吕 Jianwei 建伟 , Rieke George H. , Alberts Stacey , Willmer Christopher N. A. , Pérez-González Pablo G. , Bunker Andrew J. , Stone Meredith , D’Eugenio Francesco , Williams Christina C. , Maseda Michael V. , Willott Chris J. , Ji Zhiyuan , Baker William M. , Carniani Stefano , Charlot Stephane , Chevallard Jacopo , Curtis-Lake Emma , Eisenstein Daniel J. , Hainline Kevin , Hausen Ryan , Nelson Erica J. , Rieke Marcia J. , Robertson Brant , Shivaei Irene
Published: December 2024

The morphology of a galaxy reflects the mix of physical processes occurring within and around it, offering indirect clues to its formation and evolution. We apply both visual classification and computer vision to test the suspected connection between galaxy mergers and active galactic nucleus (AGN) activity, as evidenced by a close/merging galaxy pair, or tidal features surrounding an apparently singular system. We use JADES JWST/NIRCam imagery of a complete, multiwavelength AGN sample recently expanded with JWST/Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) photometry. This 0.9–25 μm data set enables constraints on the host-galaxy morphologies of a broad range of AGN beyond z ∼ 1, including heavily obscured examples missing from previous studies. Our primary AGN sample consists of 243 lightly to highly obscured X-ray-selected AGN and 138 presumed Compton-thick, mid-infrared-bright/X-ray-faint AGN revealed by MIRI. Utilizing the shape asymmetry morphology indicator, A

S
, as the metric for disturbance, we find that 88% of the Seyferts sampled are strongly spatially disturbed (A

S
> 0.2). The experimental design we employ reveals a ≳3σ obscuration–merger (N
H–A

S
) correlation at 0.6 < z < 2.4, and also recovers a physical distinction between the X-ray- and mid-IR-detected AGN suggestive of their link to a common evolutionary scenario. Placing the observed pattern of disturbances in the context of the other average host-galaxy properties, we conclude that mergers are common among obscured AGN. This finding presents tension with the leading model on AGN fueling that requires Seyfert AGN with subquasar luminosities (L
bol < 1045 erg s−1) to evolve only through nonmerger mechanisms.
Frozen-field Modeling of Coronal Condensations with MPI-AMRVAC. II. Optimization and Application in 3D Models
Authors: Zhou Yuhao , Li Xiaohong , Jenkins Jack M. , Hong Jie , Keppens Rony
Published: December 2024

The frozen-field hydrodynamic (ffHD) model is a simplification of the full magnetohydrodynamical equations under the assumption of a rigid magnetic field, which significantly reduces computational complexity and enhances efficiency. In this work, we combine the ffHD prescription with hyperbolic thermal conduction (TC) and the Transition Region Adaptive Conduction (TRAC) method to achieve further optimization. A series of 2D tests are done to evaluate the performance of the hyperbolic TC and the TRAC method. The results indicate that hyperbolic TC, while showing limiter-affected numerical dissipation, delivers outcomes comparable to classic parabolic TC. The TRAC method effectively compensates for the underestimation of enthalpy flux in low-resolution simulations, as evaluated on tests that demonstrate prominence formation. We present an application of the ffHD model that forms a 3D prominence embedded in a magnetic flux rope, which develops into a stable slab-like filament. The simulation reveals a prominence with an elongated spine and a width consistent with observations, highlighting the potential of the ffHD model in capturing the dynamics of solar prominences. Forward modeling of the simulation data produces synthetic images at various wavelengths, providing insights into the appearance of prominences and filaments in different observational contexts. The ffHD model, with its computational efficiency and the demonstrated capability to simulate complex solar phenomena, offers a valuable tool for solar physicists, and is implemented in the open-source MPI-AMRVAC framework.
NGC 628 in SIGNALS: Explaining the Abundance-ionization Correlation in H ii Regions
Authors: Garner Ray , Kennicutt Robert , Rousseau-Nepton Laurie , Olivier Grace M. , Fernández-Arenas David , Robert Carmelle , Martin René Pierre , Amram Philippe
Published: December 2024

The variations of oxygen abundance and ionization parameter in H ii regions are usually thought to be the dominant factors that produced variations seen in observed emission-line spectra. However, if and how these two quantities are physically related is hotly debated in the literature. Using emission line data of NGC 628 observed with SITELLE as part of the Star formation, Ionized Gas, and Nebular Abundances Legacy Survey (SIGNALS), we use a suite of photoionization models to constrain the abundance and ionization parameters for over 1500 H ii regions throughout its disk. We measure an anticorrelation between these two properties, consistent with expectations, although with considerable scatter. Secondary trends with dust extinction and star formation rate surface density potentially explain the large scatter observed. We raise concerns throughout regarding various modeling assumptions and their impact on the observed correlations presented in the literature.
New Insight of Time-transformed Symplectic Integrator. I. Hybrid Methods for Hierarchical Triples
Authors: Wang 王 Long 龙
Published: December 2024

Accurate N-body simulations of multiple systems such as binaries and triples are essential for understanding the formation and evolution of interacting binaries and binary mergers, including gravitational wave sources, blue stragglers, and X-ray binaries. The logarithmic time-transformed explicit symplectic integrator (LogH), also known as algorithmic regularization, is a state-of-the-art method for this purpose. However, we show that this method is accurate for isolated Kepler orbits because of its ability to trace Keplerian trajectories, but much less accurate for hierarchical triple systems. The method can lead to an unphysical secular evolution of inner eccentricity in Kozal–Lidov triples, despite a small energy error. We demonstrate that hybrid methods, which apply LogH to the inner binary and alternative methods to the outer bodies, are significantly more effective, though not symplectic. Additionally, we introduce a more efficient hybrid method, BlogH, which eliminates the need for time synchronization and is time symmetric. The method is implemented in the few-body code SDAR. We explore suitable criteria for switching between the LogH and BlogH methods for general triple systems. These hybrid methods have the potential to enhance the integration performance of hierarchical triples.
Mining Double-line Spectroscopic Candidates in the LAMOST Medium-resolution Spectroscopic Survey Using a Human–AI Hybrid Method
Authors: Li Shan-shan , Li Chun-qian , Li Chang-hua , Fan Dong-wei , Xu Yun-fei , Mi Lin-ying , Cui Chen-zhou , Shi Jian-rong
Published: December 2024

We utilize a hybrid approach that integrates the traditional cross-correlation function (CCF) and machine learning to detect spectroscopic multiple star systems, specifically focusing on double-line spectroscopic binaries (SB2s). Based on the ninth data release (DR9) of the Large Sky Area Multi-Object Fiber Spectroscopic Telescope (LAMOST), which includes a medium-resolution survey (MRS) containing 29,920,588 spectra, we identify 27,164 double-line and 3124 triple-line spectra, corresponding to 7096 SB2 candidates and 1903 triple-line spectroscopic binary (SB3) candidates, respectively, representing about 1% of the selected data set from LAMOST-MRS DR9. Notably, 70.1% of the SB2 candidates and 89.6% of the SB3 candidates are newly identified. Compared to using only the traditional CCF technique, our method significantly improves the efficiency of detecting SB2s, saving time on visual inspections by a factor of 4.
The Blue Horizontal-branch Stars from the LAMOST Survey: Atmospheric Parameters
Authors: Ju Jie , Zhang Bo , Cui Wenyuan , Huo Zhenyan , Liu Chao , Huang Yang , Shi Jianrong
Published: December 2024

Blue horizontal-branch (BHB) stars are crucial for studying the structure of the Galactic halo. Accurate atmospheric parameters of BHB stars are essential for investigating the formation and evolution of the Galaxy. In this work, a data-driven technique named Stellar Label Machine (SLAM) is used to estimate the atmospheric parameters of Large Sky Area Multi-Object Fiber Spectroscopic Telescope low-resolution spectra for BHB stars with a set of A-type theoretical spectra as the training data set. We add color indexes ((BP − G), (G − RP), (BP − RP), (J − H)) during the training process to constrain the stellar temperature further. Finally, we derive the atmospheric parameters (T
eff, log g, [Fe/H]) for 5355 BHB stars. Compared to existing literature results, our results are more robust, and after taking the color index into account the resulting precision of T
eff and log g is significantly improved, especially for the spectrum with a low signal-to-noise ratio (S/N). Based on the duplicate observations with an S/N difference <20%, the random errors are around 30 K, 0.1 dex, and 0.12 dex for T
eff, log g, and [Fe/H], respectively. The stellar labels provided by SLAM are also compared to those from the high-resolution spectra in the literature. The standard deviation between the predicted star labels and the published values from the high-resolution spectra is adopted as the statistical uncertainty of our results. They are σ(T
eff) = 76 K, σ(log g) = 0.04 dex, and σ([Fe/H]) = 0.09 dex, respectively.
Increasing the Self-Confidence of School Nurses to Provide Mental Health Care to Students
Authors: McKay Elizabeth Anne , Lim Eunjung , Mattheus Deborah
Published: December 2024

Background

School nurses want and need continued education in student mental health care because of variability in their knowledge, skills, and confidence in assessing and responding to mental health concerns. To address this concern, two student mental health simulation scenarios were developed for a large school-based health program in Hawaii.

Method

School nurses (
n
= 51) participated in a 1-day skills training that included two scenarios with actors depicting students presenting with depression or anxiety. This mixed methods study used a qualitative component to explore nurses' simulation experiences and a six-item survey to assess confidence levels pre- and postsimulation.

Results

Scores for all six confidence items showed significant improvement after the intervention. Nurses highly valued the live actors and feedback sessions.

Conclusion

Mental health care simulations can significantly increase school nurses' confidence in providing appropriate assessments and follow-up care to students.

[
J Contin Educ Nurs.
2025;56(1):20–26.]
Vector fields on bifurcation diagrams of quasi singularities
Authors: Alharbi Fawaz , Li Yanlin
Published: December 2024

We describe the generators of the vector fields tangent to the bifurcation diagrams and caustics of simple quasi boundary singularities. As an application, submersions on the pair $ (G, B) $, which consists of a cuspidal edge $ G $ in $ \mathbb{R}^3 $ that contains a distinguishing regular curve $ B $, are classified. This classification was used as a means to investigate the contact that a general cuspidal edge $ G $ equipped with a regular curve $ B\subset G $ has with planes. The singularities of the height functions on $ (G, B) $ are discussed and they are related to the curvatures and torsions of the distinguished curves on the cuspidal edge. In addition to this, the discriminants of the versal deformations of the submersions that were accomplished are described and they are related to the duality of the cuspidal edge.
Schur-type inequality for solitonic hypersurfaces in $ (k, \mu) $-contact metric manifolds
Authors: Siddiqi Mohd Danish , Mofarreh Fatemah
Published: December 2024

In this article, we derive a Schur-type Inequality in terms of the gradient $ r $-Almost Newton-Ricci-Yamabe soliton in $ (k, \mu) $-contact metric manifolds. We discuss the triviality for the compact gradient $ r $-Almost Newton-Ricci-Yamabe soliton in $ (k, \mu) $-Contact metric manifolds. In the end, we deduce a Schur-type inequality for the gradient $ r $-Almost Newton-Yamabe soliton in $ (k, \mu) $-contact metric manifolds, static Riemannian manifolds, and normal homogeneous compact Riemannian manifolds coupled with a projected Casimir operator.
Dynamical and computational analysis of a fractional predator-prey model with an infectious disease and harvesting policy
Authors: Kumar Devendra , Singh Jogendra , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: December 2024

This paper examined the features of an infection therapy for fractional-order quarry-hunter systems in order to control sickness. It focused especially on how illnesses and several populations combine to affect how well harvesting policies work. We created a new dynamic model full of such ideas by examining systems with fractional-order non-integer systems and introducing fractional-order systems that can remember in order to comprehend that specific system. These thresholds are essential for directing management strategies, according to research on the presence, uniqueness, and stability of solutions to these models. Additionally, we presented particular MATLAB-based numerical methods for fractional-order model. Through a series of numerical application experiments, we validated the method's efficacy and its value in guiding strategy modifications regarding harvesting rates in the face of epidemic infections. This demonstrates the necessity of using a fractional approach in ecosystem research in order to improve the methods used for resource management. This paper primarily focused on the unique insight brought into the quarry-hunter models with infectious diseases by the fractional-order dynamics in ecology. The results are meaningful especially since they can be utilized to come up with effective measures to control diseases and even promote the sustainability of ecological systems.
The Power of Storytelling and the Positive Impact They Have on Students of Color
Authors: Perez Lee , Rivera Autumn , Benavides Ramon
Published: December 2024

Storytelling through the perspective of teachers of color can have a positive impact on students of color. With immigrant, migrant, and refugee populations increasing in classrooms across the United States of America, storytelling is a powerful vessel to assist students with their social and emotional needs during instruction and learning. Moreover, storytelling can teach culturally diverse populations empathy through the powerful lens of their teachers. This is essentially more powerful if their teachers look like the diverse students that they serve daily. This chapter aims to tell the stories of three prominent Latinx teachers and how they have used their respective stories to inspire and empower their students of color to be the best versions of themselves culturally, emotionally, linguistically, and academically.
The Critical Work of the Blue-Collar Scholar
Authors: Rosales David De La Cruz
Published: December 2024

This chapter explores the essential role of Latinx educators in nurturing critical linguistic and literacy awareness among English Learners, referred to as Emergent Bilinguals. Specifically, the focus will be on the impact of Latinx educators in the English Language Development (ELD) classroom. This chapter asserts that the work of a Latinx ELD educator is based on a critical understanding of the oppressive systemic structures of assimilation policies, linguistic dominance, and constructed academic challenges and labels imposed on Emergent Bilinguals due to historical marginalization and oppressive systems, often exacerbated by political agendas and anti-immigrant sentiments. Despite the challenges posed by the monoglossic and hegemonic nature of ELD policies, Latinx educators can employ culturally relevant practices to amplify the voices of their students and communities within the framework of the ELD classroom.
Understanding Dyslexia in Multilingual Environments
Authors: Cummings Concepción Moncada , Gómez-Fuentes Norma Igneri , Gonsalves Vivian
Published: December 2024

Given its prevalence, most teachers across the U.S. are likely to have students with dyslexia in their classrooms, and many of them may come from homes where English is not the primary language of communication. This chapter aims to provide insights, methods, and strategies for addressing dyslexia within multilingual environments, which often complicates identification and intervention. The chapter has three main sections. First, it begins with multilingual students' unique challenges, including language dominance, cross-linguistic transfer, and distinguishing between language differences and disorders. Then, it provides an overview of implications for literacy instruction for multilingual students with dyslexia, like the importance of culturally responsive teaching practices and evidence-based instructional strategies, such as including the Science of Reading, tailored to support the literacy development of multilingual students with dyslexia. The final section summarizes the recommended strategies across the literature discussed throughout the chapter.
Reviewing Opportunities and Challenges of Sustainable Entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka
Authors: Herath H. M. T. S. , Surangi H. A. K. N. S. , Shamil Mohamed Mihilar
Published: December 2024

In response to significant societal issues, sustainable entrepreneurship has surfaced as a potential means of solving ecological and social problems. However, most recent studies on sustainable entrepreneurship have been phenomenon-driven, with context-specific findings and a relatively implicit theoretical relationship. Thus, the main goals of this chapter are to investigate the opportunities and challenges of sustainable entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka. The method used was a qualitative, multiple-case investigation. Two cases from Sri Lanka were examined. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with co-founders. The results showed that sustainable entrepreneurship in the two firms revolved around four key areas: 1) a process view, 2) a triple bottom line focused value creation 3) the centrality of opportunities, and 4) triple bottom line solutions. The findings of this study have significance for existing and future entrepreneurs, policymakers, and entrepreneurship education. The chapter also contribute to sustainable entrepreneurship research opportunities, and challenges.
Role of Social Entrepreneurship in Sustainable Development
Authors: Ayyoob A. , Sajeev Aparna
Published: December 2024

In today's world, social entrepreneurship offers innovative solutions to global challenges, addressing societal and environmental issues. This abstract explores the impact and challenges of social entrepreneurship, focusing on its role in sustainable development. Drawing on business experts' insights, it examines drivers, barriers, and effective strategies. The study employs mixed methods, including qualitative and quantitative analyses, to uncover the pivotal role of social entrepreneurship in addressing societal, economic, and environmental challenges. Despite obstacles, social entrepreneurs leverage effective business models to create social and environmental value, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and social responsibility. Recommendations include fostering cross-sector partnerships and promoting adaptability within organizations to advance sustainability goals. These insights provide practical guidance for policymakers and practitioners seeking to prioritize sustainability while achieving organizational success and positive societal impact.
AI Strategies for Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Prabhakar Akhilesh Chandra
Published: December 2024

Global poverty is a pressing issue that affects a large portion of the world's population. Understanding the underlying causes of poverty and implementing effective AI strategies for alleviation are crucial steps towards achieving sustainable development goals. The empirical research presented in this study adds valuable insights to the academic discourse on development economics and the interplay between economic growth, poverty reduction, and sustainable development in developing nations. It's through collective action and informed decision-making that we can make a positive impact on combating global poverty. The authors analyze the trends, conflicts and contradictions within the socio-economic-political-cultural systems within the periphery and semi-periphery nations and colonial linkages/legacies with the core nations. The chapter provides also a comprehensive treatment of the subject and recommends new perspectives on poverty alleviation and sustainable development goals.
Think Green
Authors: Job Jovita , Khanna Shivi
Published: December 2024

A key challenge of sustainability is seeking a proper balance between addressing present needs and sustaining resources for future generations emphasizing the three pillars of environmental, social, and governance (ESG). This study delves into sustainability, integrating ESG components and exploring the sustainability business practices followed by different industries. A review of the sustainability strategies implemented by various firms has been explored and a model paving the way for a sustainable future has been created incorporating ESG. Studies reveal that both large organizations as well as small organizations can incorporate sustainability initiatives. Sustainability is not always a costly business; businesses should match their practices to sustainability objectives which will make it easier to incorporate sustainable measures into the frameworks that are already in place. Sustainability is a process that does not have a finish line and hence sustainability approaches should be followed by all businesses.
AI-Driven Innovations in E-Government
Authors: Albous Mohammad Rashed , Alboloushi Bedour
Published: December 2024

As governments around the world embrace the digital revolution, AI-driven innovation emerges as a powerful tool for transforming public sector operations and e-government services. AI-driven innovation offers significant opportunities for governments, such as increasing operational efficiency, fostering citizen engagement, and enabling more effective decision-making. However, the integration of AI in the public sector also presents key challenges, such as data privacy concerns and algorithmic bias. This chapter provides a comprehensive analysis of AI integration in the public sector across various key domains. It explores both the significant opportunities and the critical considerations that governments must address to ensure the effective and ethical utilization of AI technologies.
Improving Solar Desalination Efficiency with Combined Techniques: Evacuated Tubes, Corrugated Fins, and Blue Metal Stones
Authors: Maheswari Kasi S. , Mayandi K. , Gnanaraj S. Joe Patrick , Jeyasingh Vanthana
Published: December 2024

Solar desalination efficiency can be significantly altered by combining several approaches to improve evaporation rate. The objective of this research is to find a way to make solar stills (SS) more efficient by combining evacuated tube solar collectors, blue metal stones, and corrugated fins. An investigation into a six-tube evacuated solar collector was conducted to increase the system's evaporation rate. Corrugated fins were thought of to rise the surface area of heat transfer between the water and absorber. Blue metal stone was proposed to keep the water at a maximum temperature even when solar radiation is minimal. Separate displays of the cumulative distillate output (DO) numbers and hourly values for each time period provide a comprehensive view. Based on the findings, the peak period for DO moves from 1 p.m. on a sample day in May 2024, which is six months into the project. In comparison to CSS, MSS temperature values are over 55 °C higher at the peak and nearly 26 °C higher on average. On top of that, the total DO during the day can reach 2.64 to 6.82 L, while at night it rises from 0.067 to 0.96 L. In addition, there is a 146.3% improvement in the average DO during the six months, going from 3.02 to 7.22 L. Additionally, MSS is 0.43₹ per liter and CSS is 0.47₹ per liter, in that order. The net amount of carbon dioxide reduction achieved by modified solar stills was approximately 2.44 times greater than that of conventional solar stills.
Diagnosis of inherited platelet function disorders
Authors: Warushahennadi R.
Published: December 2024

Inherited platelet function disorders (IPFDs) are rare, congenital diseases characterized by a widely heterogeneous clinical presentation. Diagnosis of IPFDs is challenging as there is no consensus or standardized approach and many laboratory techniques used for assessment are insufficiently standardized, technically challenging and poorly reproducible. Aim of this article is to describe the correct approach for laboratory diagnosis of IPFDs.
Developing an Analytical Framework to Discern Historical Developments in Physiotherapy
Authors: MacDonald Cameron W. , Parkes Robert , Osmotherly Peter G.
Published: December 2024

An appreciation of the history of physiotherapy permits an understanding of the development of the profession and appreciates its societal role. However, the study of history within physiotherapy is confounded by methods favoring a deductive approach and the exclusion of bias. To discover the historical elements of a profession or a technique, methods applied in research need to be abductive, inclusive of bias, and open to alternative sources of information enabling the discovery and emplotment of new narratives. There is minimal attention to the historical development of the physiotherapy profession or the genesis of techniques utilized. Research methodologies used by those seeking to expand understanding are limited by the scientific health-care research methods chosen. This paper discusses a hybrid approach for historical research in our profession, using the example of an analytical framework to address the question of the historical genesis of manual therapy in health care, outlining the development of this method and including the creation of a novel historical source appraisal tool, as we seek to emplot an updated historical narrative.
Companionship during Childbirth: Pregnant Women’s Perception, Acceptability, and Preferences in a Tertiary Health Center in Northwestern Nigeria
Authors: Garba Jamila Abubakar , Abdullahi Zainab Kontagora , Bello Saratu , Panti Abubakar Abubakar , Umar Amina Gambo , Tunau Karima Abubakar
Published: December 2024

Background and Aim:

Companionship during childbirth has been identified as one of the indicators of quality of care during labor. Women who received companionship throughout labor have been found to have better outcome. The aim of this study was to determine the pregnant women’s perception, acceptability, and preferences for companionship during childbirth.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study among pregnant women attending antenatal care at a tertiary health center in Northwestern Nigeria. The data were obtained using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Analysis was done using SPSS version 25.

Results:

Three hundred and forty-three respondents were recruited into the study. Among them, 193 (56.3%) were aware that they could have a companion during childbirth and 62 (18.1%) had a previous companion. Mothers were the companions for 19 (30.6%) and husbands were the companions for 16 (25.8%). The majority of the respondents (n = 243; 70.8%) believed that it is essential to have a companion during childbirth and 68.2% would accept having a companion during childbirth. The factors that were associated with the acceptability of having a companion during childbirth were educational status (P = 0.003) and awareness of companionship during childbirth (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The majority of the respondents believed that it is essential to have a companion during childbirth and are willing to accept it. The factors associated with the acceptability of having a companion during childbirth were educational status and awareness of companionship during childbirth.
Fear of Missing Out among University Students: A Cross-sectional Survey Study
Authors: Phuyal Anish , Saxena Akanksha , Grover Shivani , Jangra Mandeep Kumar
Published: December 2024

Background and Aim:

Fear of missing out (FOMO) is a universal fear that someone else is doing something enjoyable that they are not. It is a growing phenomenon among college students, with many of them constantly checking their phones. The aim of the current study is to investigate the FOMO among university students.

Materials and Methods:

A study was conducted with a convenience sample of 323 young adults recruited through online platforms such as Instagram, WhatsApp, and Snapchat. The survey utilized Google Forms, which included informed consent and both the FOMO Scale (a 15-item self-report measure) and the Social Media Addiction Scale-Student Form (SMAS-SF) consisting of 29 items. Participants rated their agreement with each item on a 5-point Likert scale.

Results:

Three hundred and twenty-three students (190 female and 132 male) responded out of 609 for a response rate of 53.03%. The majority of participants (42%) had a FOMO score between 21–30 and 11–20 (40%). The majority of participants (59%) had an SMAS-SF score between 60 and 89, whereas 27% had a score between 90 and 119. Only 1% of participants had a score between 120 and 145. These results suggest that social media addiction is also a common problem among university students.

Conclusion:

Excessive smartphone and social media usage, particularly in times of isolation, can give rise to negative outcomes such as FOMO and social comparison, underscoring the importance of promoting healthy digital habits and implementing interventions for overall well-being.
Antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects of Achillea filipendulina L. against colon cancer
Authors: Tunç Tutku , Akın Şeyda , Aykaç Okan , Hepokur Ceylan , Duran Serap , Özpınar Hülya
Published: December 2024

Objective:

To investigate the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects of Achillea filipendulina.

Methods:

Phytochemical content was analyzed by GC-MS. Antioxidant activity was assayed by DPPH, total antioxidant status, total oxidant status, and iron reduction tests. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the MIC assay. Anticancer activity was detected via MTT assay, followed by analysis of the apoptotic process using annexin V and caspase 3/7. miR-519d and Dvl-1 expression were assessed by RT-PCR, and molecular docking analysis was also performed.

Results:

The ethanol extract of Achillea filipendulina showed the strongest anticancer effect. A significant increase in miR-519d expression was observed in HT29 cells, while a decrease in Dvl-1 expression was noted. DPPH, FRAP, total antioxidant status, and total oxidant assays showed high antioxidant activity. The hexane and ethanol extracts were effective against Streptococcus mutans (MIC<50 µg/mL), while the ethanol extract was effective against Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans (MIC<50 µg/mL). Molecular docking studies also confirmed that ethanol extracts could act on the Wnt pathway. GC-MS analysis showed high level of eucalyptol and borneol content in the extract.

Conclusions:

Ethanol extract of Achillea filipendulina has anticancer effect and can be used in colon cancer treatments.
Trauma Triage Knowledge and Skills among Emergency Medical Services Providers at Selected Armed Forces Hospitals, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alharthi Theeb Mastour
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Emergency medical service (EMS) providers function in a challenging prehospital and in-hospital environment where they are required to have sufficient trauma triage (TT) knowledge and skills to reduce under-triage and improve future patients chances of survival. This study aimed to assess the TT knowledge and skills among EMS providers at selected Armed Forces Hospitals.

METHODS:

This quantitative study used a descriptive cross-sectional design and was conducted at four Armed Forces Hospitals in the Makkah region (King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital in Jeddah City, Prince Mansoor, Prince Sultan, and Alhada Armed Forces Hospitals in Taif City) from July to December 2023. A sample of 72 EMS providers were recruited as study participants, and the tools used for the study included sociodemographic profile, knowledge, and triage skills. Data analysis was carried out by using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software.

RESULTS:

The total average score of knowledge was 67.4% and 59.7% of respondents had high TT skills. More than half of the respondents were aged 30–39 years, and 39 (54.2%) of the participants had a bachelor’s degree in EMS. Moreover, approximately 45 (62.5%) of the participants had more than 5 years of work experience.

CONCLUSION:

The study revealed that TT knowledge was at a moderate level, the majority of EMS providers had high skills in TT assessment, and there were some shortcomings among respondents in determining the priority for triaging some injuries.
To assess dietary habits and associated risk factors among medical students in North Delhi: A major health concern
Authors: Ahlawat Pooja , Dwivedi Archana , Dwivedi Nidhi , Mahuar Gunjan , Singh Kamaljeet , Mahaur Mridul , Sharma Soumit , Jain Akshita
Published: December 2024

Background:

Medical students are expected to have good dietary habits and to maintain a healthy lifestyle considering their increased knowledge regarding healthy and balanced diets. Although medical students possess high knowledge about healthy dietary habits, they do not practice these habits.

Objectives:

This study aimed to assess the dietary habits and risk factors associated with poor dietary habits among medical students.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study using the complete enumeration sampling method was conducted on medical students of North Delhi Municipal Corporation Medical College and Hindu Rao Hospital. A pre-designed pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect student data. To assess dietary habits, the World Health Organization-STEPwise approach to the noncommunicable disease risk factor surveillance questionnaire was modified and used. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 21).

Results:

Among the study participants, 31.3% of male students and 31.6% of female students had good dietary habits. Furthermore, 42.7% of the students consumed two main meals a day, whereas only 4.7% consumed one main meal a day. Of the study participants, 47% did not eat meals at regular intervals. Moreover, 41% consumed snacks between the main meals. Most medical students (90.2%) consumed fast food. It was found that 58.2% of the students consumed fruits and vegetables at least once daily. Residence and alcohol consumption were strong predictors of dietary habits. The findings of this study revealed that poor dietary habits were significantly associated with poor-quality sleep.

Conclusion:

Although medical students possess high knowledge about healthy dietary habits, they do not practice these habits.
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Chen Chieh , Liao Da-Ming
Published: December 2024

As the prevalence of obesity increases globally, the incidence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) also increases in both developed and developing countries. However, the MASLD phenotype remains unclear, with many unknown reasons. Since Ludwig and others coined the term nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in 1980, with our in-depth understanding of this condition, we gradually realized that its definition is complicated, mainly because of metabolic dysfunction. The heterogeneity of fatty liver disease and the related factors vary between individuals. The clinical manifestations and course of MASLD may be affected by multiple factors, including age, sex, race, diet, genetics, intestinal microorganisms, and environment. This study mainly searched for articles published in databases such as Cochrane Library, PubMed (Medline), UpToDate, and Google Scholar, using keywords related to digestive disease, metabolic syndrome, fatty liver, diabetes mellitus, and obesity. Case–control studies, systematic review, meta-analyses, and randomized controlled trials were also searched to explore the epidemiology and prevention of obesity or MASLD and to propose risk factors for MASLD, considering that early prevention keeps an unhealthy condition from progressing to serious chronic diseases.
Cognitive function in community-dwelling older people in central Taiwan
Authors: Chuang Hui-Chu , Huang Shang-Chien , Chang Yu-Jung , Hsieh Po-Chun , Chiu Yi-Wen
Published: December 2024

Background:

With the increasing aging population, cognitive impairment in older individuals has become a social concern, making it a common health issue.

Objectives:

This study aimed to investigate the cognitive function of community-dwelling older individuals and subsequently explore the contributing factors.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study, including 150 individuals aged 65 years and older. The cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE) and CogMate™. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyzes were performed using SPSS 24.0.

Results:

Most participants were female, accounting for 80%. The average age of the participants was 74.90 ± 6.60 years. Furthermore, 70% of the participants had an educational level of elementary school or below. Among the participants, 62% and 66.7% exhibited cognitive impairment based on the MMSE and CogMate™ assessments, respectively. Age, educational level, marital status, and health condition were common factors influencing the MMSE and CogMate™ scores.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of cognitive impairment is high among community-dwelling older individuals. The results of the MMSE and CogMate™ assessments were comparable. The cognitive function of community-dwelling older individuals should be regularly assessed to facilitate early detection and provide suitable medical care intervention and supportive counseling, thereby enhancing their quality of life.
Myofascial pain disorder: A narrative review
Authors: Chen Chieh , Liao Da-Ming
Published: December 2024

The term “myofascial pain” was first coined by American researcher Dr. Travell in 1952. Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is characterized by myofascial trigger points and fascial contraction. MPS has received much attention from physicians. With the available treatment options, patients should be encouraged to face their fear and actively cooperate in their treatment to promptly eliminate painful trigger points and treat MPS. Scientific and standardized exercise, excellent living habits, and early therapy are key to early recovery from MPS.
Epstein–Barr virus-positive inflammatory follicular dendritic cell sarcoma of the liver: A case report
Authors: Jin Jong-Shiaw , Hsueh Kuan-Chun , Lee Cheng-Chun , Tsao Tang-Yi , Gao Hong-Wei
Published: December 2024

A 59-year-old female presented with a 1-year history of epigastric pain, vomiting, and acid regurgitation. Initial evaluation indicated peptic ulcer disease, and subsequent imaging identified a liver mass. Histopathological analysis confirmed an Epstein–Barr virus-positive inflammatory follicular dendritic cell sarcoma. This case report discusses the clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, differential diagnoses, and surgical management of this rare neoplasm, along with a review of similar cases in the literature.
Perception about community medicine: A mixed-method study among 1st year MBBS entrants of a private medical college of eastern India
Authors: Nayak Rosy , Mohapatra Ipsa , Sahoo Priyaranjan , Sarkar Avinandan
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

The introduction of Community Medicine (CM) into medical curriculum dates back to 1955; from imparting training as a comprehensive healthcare provider, to the current National Medical Commission (NMC) goals of creating a physician of primary contact, the importance of the subject needs to be oriented to the students. The objective of the study was to assess the perception of 1st-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery students about the subject CM.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional mixed-method study was conducted in a medical college in Eastern India; the college has an intake of 250 students annually. After ethics approval, using an embedded quantitative and qualitative mixed-method study design, data were collected, using a semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire, having sections on demographic information, and perception about CM, with both open-ended and closed-ended (a three-point Likert scale (Agree – 1, Don’t know – 2, and Disagree – 3) questions. Quantitative data were expressed as means, frequencies, and percentages and qualitative data as thematic content analysis. The data were analyzed using Epi Info software, version 7.3.2 (CDC, Atlanta, Georgia, USA).

Results:

Of the total 250 students, 237 participated, with a response rate of 94.8%. Their mean age was 19.03 ± 1.21 standard deviation years, and 45.57% were males. Four major themes emerged from the content analysis of perception – “treatment,” “prevention and awareness generation,” “community outreach,” and “health-workforce training.” Fifteen subthemes surfaced beneath the main themes. 96.20% had a positive attitude toward the subject; females had a better perception.

Conclusion:

Study findings showed that although there were a few negative perceptions about the subject, the majority had a positive one, signaling a welcome change. This goes in favor of the vision of NMC to have added the family-adoption program, help them to come in closer contact with the communities, learn to communicate with them, understand their health needs, and thereby become better doctors.

The following core competencies are addressed in this article: Practice-based learning and improvement, Medical knowledge, Systems-based practice, Interpersonal and communication skills, and Professionalism.
Prevalence and correlates of self-reported substance use among undergraduate students in a medical college of North India: An observational study
Authors: Dagar Happy , Kumar Mithilesh , Parashar Lokesh , Rana Erika , Tyagi Mansi , Nimbria Gaurav , Handa Kritika , Singla Khushi , Singh Mitasha
Published: December 2024

Background:

Medical education in India has been one of the toughest professional courses. A student away from home has full independence to try new things. Addictive substances are one of them.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence and correlates of self-reported substance use in the last 6 months among apparently healthy undergraduate medical students.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional analytical study was carried out at a tertiary care hospital and medical college located in Faridabad, Haryana, among medical undergraduates admitted between 2018 and 2021. Two hundred and twenty-four students were approached using stratified random sampling. Stratification was done according to the year of admission of students. Self-reported use of any substance in the last 6 months was the outcome variable.

Results:

The prevalence of self-reported substance use in the last 6 months among the medical undergraduate students was 27.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 21.7–33.3). Alcohol was used by majority (91.9%; 95% CI: 83.2–96.9%), and tobacco use was reported by 38.7% (95% CI: 27.3–51.1%); maximum among prefinal-year students (45.5%). The prevalence of any substance use was higher among those who had a history of use of alcohol in family (58.3% [95% CI: 44.3–72.2]) and those who used any type of substance before joining undergraduate medical course (80% [95% CI: 55.6–94.0]).

Conclusion:

More than one-fourth of students self-reported the use of any substance use. The pocket money obtained by students, their family history of use of alcohol, and male sex were determinants of substance use.