bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The DiskMass Survey. XI. Disk Geometries and Star Formation Surface Densities from Ionized Gas Kinematics and Line Intensities for the Full Hα Sample
Authors: Swaters Robert A. , Andersen David R. , Bershady Matthew A. , Martinsson Thomas P. K. , Scholz Paul , Verheijen Marc A.W. , Westfall Kyle B.
Published: January 2025

We present Hα-region integral-field spectroscopy for 137 low-inclination, intermediate to late-type galaxies. Spectroscopic data, obtained with SparsePak and the Bench Spectrograph on the WIYN 3.5 m telescope, span 6475–6880 Å with an instrumental resolution of 13 km s−1 (σ). The spectral range includes Hα and [N ii]λλ6548, 6584 for every source, and in most cases includes [S ii]λλ6717, 6731. We present and publicly release 18,288 calibrated spectra and visually inspected Gaussian line fits to the Hα emission. Most measurements yield a signal-to-noise ratio above 5 in integrated Hα line flux, adequate to derive reliable line centroids and widths. Second kinematic components are required to adequately describe the emission-line profile in 15% of reliable data. The Hα velocity dispersion distribution peaks at 18 km s−1, modestly increasing with Hα surface brightness, reaching 20 km s−1 at ΣHα
= 1040 erg s−1 kpc−2. Lower-flux secondary components, when present, have widths of ~50 km s−1. These results agree well with previous echelle measurements of nearby galaxies. Velocity-field analysis yields kinematic inclinations, with a sample mean of 26°. Large kinematic asymmetries systematically affect kinematic inclination estimates in a small fraction of our sample. When deviations from circular motion are below 10% of the projected velocity, kinematic inclinations are consistent, within errors, to estimates from inverting the Tully–Fisher relation. This confirms previous disk-submaximality estimates for galaxies with regular kinematics based on inclinations derived from inverting the Tully–Fisher relation.
Production, Transport, and Destruction of Dust in the Kuiper Belt: The Effects of Refractory and Volatile Grain Compositions
Authors: Corbett Thomas , Doner Alex , Horányi Mihály , Brandt Pontus , Grundy Will , Lisse Carey M. , Parker Joel , Peltier Lowell , Poppe Andrew R. , Singer Kelsi N. , Stern S. Alan , Verbiscer Anne J.
Published: January 2025

The Venetia Burney Student Dust Counter (SDC) on board the New Horizons spacecraft measures the spatial and size distributions of dust along its trajectory. Models based on early SDC measurements predicted a peak dust number density at a heliocentric distance of ∼40 au, followed by a rapid decline. Instead, SDC observed dust fluxes 2–3 times higher than predicted between 40 and 60 au. One potential explanation for this discrepancy is that SDC may be encountering icy grains with different dynamical behavior than previously modeled silicate grains. Due to ultraviolet photosputtering, water–ice grains rapidly erode and migrate outward, significantly contributing to the measured dust number densities only at distances ≳40 au. We present a model of silicate and ice grain dynamics in the outer solar system, considering gravitational and radiation forces and grain erosion. Using SDC data, we estimate that the mass production rate of ice grains between 0.1 and 10 μm in the Kuiper Belt (KB) would need to be 20–70 times higher than that of silicate grains. However, KB grains are expected to be refractory/volatile mixtures rather than pure silicate or ice. Thus, we briefly explore simple models of more realistic mixed-grain cases to further gauge the effects of grain composition on the equilibrium dust distribution. Future SDC measurements at greater distances will test the model predictions and further constrain silicate and ice grain production rates in the KB.
History and Habitability of the LP 890-9 Planetary System
Authors: Barnes Rory , do Amaral Laura N. R. , Birky Jessica , Carone Ludmila , Driscoll Peter , Livesey Joseph R. , Graham David , Becker Juliette , Cui Kaiming , Schlecker Martin , Garcia Rodolfo , Gialluca Megan , Adams Arthur , Ahmed MD Redyan , Bonney Paul , Broussard Wynter , Chawla Chetan , Damasso Mario , Danchi William C. , Deitrick Russell , Ducrot Elsa , Fromont Emeline F. , Gaches Brandt A. L. , Gupta Sakshi , Hill Michelle L. , Jackman James A. G. , Janin Estelle M. , Karawacki Mikołaj , Koren Matheus Daniel , La Greca Roberto , Leung Michaela , Miranda-Rosete Arturo , Olohoy Michael Kent A. , Ngo Cecelia , Paul Daria , Sahu Chandan Kumar , Sarkar Debajyoti Basu , Shadab Mohammad Afzal , Schwieterman Edward W. , Sedler Melissa , Texeira Katie , Vazan Allona , Delgado Vega Karen N. , Vijayakumar Rohit , Wojack Jonathan T.
Published: January 2025

We present numerous aspects of the evolution of the LP 890-9 (SPECULOOS-2/TOI-4306) planetary system, focusing on the likelihood that planet c can support life. We find that the host star reaches the main sequence in 1 Gyr and that planet c lies close to the inner boundary of the habitable zone. We find the magma ocean stage can last up to 50 Myr, remove eight Earth oceans of water, and leave up to 2000 bars of oxygen in the atmosphere. However, if the planet forms with a hydrogen envelope as small as 0.1 Earth masses, no water will be lost during the star's pre-main-sequence phase from thermal escape processes. We find that the planets are unlikely to be in a 3:1 mean motion resonance and that both planets tidally circularize within 0.5 Gyr when tidal dissipation is held constant. However, if tidal dissipation is a function of mantle temperature and rheology, then we find that planet c's orbit may require more than 7 Gyr to circularize, during which time tidal heating may reach hundreds of terawatts. We thus conclude that the habitability of planet c depends most strongly on the initial volatile content and internal properties, but no data yet preclude the viability of an active biosphere on the planet.
Cross Validation of Albedo Determination for 1627 Ivar from Three Different Techniques
Authors: Selmi Elena , Devogèle M. , Masiero J. R. , Santiago N. Vega , Wright E. L. , Ferrais M. , Fernández-Valenzuela E. , Borisov G. , Bendjoya Ph. , Rivet J.-P. , Abe L. , Vernet D. , Cellino A.
Published: January 2025

Near-Earth asteroids are of great interest to the scientific community due to their proximity to Earth, making them both potential hazards and possible targets for future missions, as they are relatively easy to reach by spacecraft. A number of techniques and models can be used to constrain their physical parameters and build a comprehensive assessment of these objects. In this work, we compare physical property results obtained from improved H

V
absolute magnitude values, thermophysical modeling, and polarimetry data for the well-known Amor-class NEO 1627 Ivar. We show that our fits for albedo are consistent with each other, thus demonstrating the validity of this cross-referencing approach, and propose a value for Ivar's albedo of

0.2

4

−
0.02

+
0.04

. Future observations will extend this work to a larger sample size, increasing the reliability of polarimetry for rapid asteroid property characterization as a technique independent of previously established methods and requiring significantly fewer observations.
Natural products as part of triple negative breast cancer
Authors: Kobakova Yozlem , Moneva-Sakelarieva Maria , Konstantinov Spiro , Momekov Georgi , Ivanova Stefka Achkova , Atanasova Ventseslava , Chaneva Maria , Tododrov Radoslav , Bashev Nikolay , Atanasov Petar
Published: January 2025

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) continues to be the breast cancer subtype with the highest recurrence and mortality rates. Treatment of TNBC can be challenging because the disease has different molecular subtypes. Various treatment options are available, such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Chemotherapy is the most common of these options. The serious side effects of chemotherapy significantly limit its use. Long-term toxicity can affect the majority of breast cancer survivors, significantly reducing their quality of life. Immunotherapy causes a wide variety of toxic effects called immune-related adverse events (IRAEs). This necessitates the search for alternative methods of treatment for triple negative breast cancer. More and more research in this field is focused on single or combination therapy based on compounds obtained from natural sources. Natural products such as curcumin, resveratrol, and epigallocatechin-3-gallate, with their mechanisms of action and antineoplastic properties, are the subject of numerous studies.
Seeding a Simple Contagion
Authors: Sadler Evan
Published: January 2025

I propose a method for selecting seeds to maximize contagion. First, fit a random graph model using a coarse categorization of individuals. Next, compute a
seed multiplier for each category—this is the average number of new infections a seed generates. Finally, seed the category with the highest multiplier. Relative to the most common methods, my approach requires far less granular data, and it consumes less computing power—the problem scales with the number of categories, not the number of individuals. I validate the methodology through simulations using real network data.
Disabilities and Chronic Illnesses in Medical Faculty Undergraduates at a Sri Lankan University and what Support they expect from the University
Authors: Weeraratne C. L. , Kumaradasa P. P. , Gunawardane M. , Fernando A. D. A. , Senanayake N. , Dayabandara M. , Silva R. E. E. , Hewageegana V. , Jayawardana D. G. S. K. L. , Haniffa M. R. , Haluwana H. M. P. M. K. , Wasudeva K. D. I.
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Despite a growing number of undergraduates with disabilities and chronic illnesses enrolling in tertiary education, their issues remain underexplored. This study investigates the prevalence of disabilities and chronic illnesses among students at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, their academic and socioeconomic challenges, and the support they expect from the university. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, using total population sampling of 1589 Medical Faculty undergraduates. Data was collected by a self-administered, online questionnaire featuring open and close-ended questions. Results: A total of 408 undergraduates (mean age:22.2±1.80 years) participated. Among them, 9.6% had disabilities, 8.8% had chronic illnesses, and 9.6% had both. In the participants, visual disability (9.6%) and asthma (4.9%) were identified as the most prevalent disability and chronic illness respectively. The majority (61%,n=69) hesitated to disclose their conditions due to concerns like stigma and rejection. Common academic challenges included difficulties in completing assignments and academic work on time (34.2%, n=39), finishing exams within the allotted time (23.7%, n=27), medication side-effects affecting studies (14.0%, n=16), and poor attendance (12.3%, n=14). Financial difficulties were faced by 41.2%, n=47). Only 18.4% (n=21) were aware of existing university support systems. Students expressed a desire for better understanding and assistance from Faculty staff (14.9%) and facility enhancements (10.5%) to address their challenges. Conclusion: Disability and chronic illnesses is a significant issue amongst the students and lead to academic and socioeconomic challenges. There is an urgent need to increase awareness of students about available university support systems and improve provision of the specific support requested by them to help them overcome these obstacles.
Barriers of conducting Effective Online Classes in Undergraduate Medical Education during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Rahim R. , Alo D. , Narunnabi A. S. M. , Parvin S. , Sufrin S.
Published: January 2025

Introduction: In March 2020, the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic forced medical colleges in Bangladesh to stop face-to-face learning activities and abruptly shift to an online curriculum. This study aims to identify the barriers to online teaching and learning from the perspective of the students and the teachers at a medical college from a developing country’s perspective. Methodology: This prospective, cross-sectional study was based on an electronic survey that was sent to the medical students and teachers of Mugda Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh, between August and December of 2021, to find out the barriers that they were facing in online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic. We used a semi-structured questionnaire with a Likert scale to find out the barriers. Data was obtained regarding perceived barriers to online learning. Results: Perceived barriers to online learning in the COVID-19 situation as identified by the students were poor internet connection specially in the rural or peri urban areas of Bangladesh (67%), high cost of internet package (65%), ineffectiveness of online class regarding practical classes specially anatomy classes (59%), distractions in the home environment disturbs concentration in class (57%), ineffectiveness of online class in solving problems and absence of feedback (41%). On the other hand, according to the teacher's opinion, the most frequently encountered barrier was conducting practical, laboratory or bedside clinical teaching and learning (85%), followed by difficulty in understanding whether students are engaged in learning or not (65%). Conclusion: Medical students and teachers confronted several interrelated barriers as they tried to adapt to online teaching and learning. Most frequently encountered were difficulty in adjusting learning styles, having distraction in home environment, and above all, poor internet connection. By implementing student-centered interventions, medical colleges and educators can play a significant role in addressing those challenges and finding possible solutions.
Evaluation of Team Based Learning as Teaching Methodology in UG Medical Teaching in Meghalaya
Authors: Agarwal M. , Agarwal S. , Sharma S. P. , Chakraborty S.
Published: January 2025

Introduction: This study evaluates the effectiveness and student perception of Team Based Learning teaching format implemented for final year MBBS students in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health & Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS), Shillong (India). Methodology: Theoretical and clinical case-based questions were provided to students a week prior to the lecture. Students worked in groups to prepare and present answers via PowerPoint presentation. Feedback was collected through a structured Google form questionnaire and analyzed statistically. Results: The GAP class was positively rated by 53.6% of students, with 39.3% reporting significant enhancement in content understanding. However, 35.7% found GAP less effective than traditional lectures, citing challenges with comprehensive understanding, and unequal participation within groups. Conclusion: Overall, the findings support the integration of teaching methods like GAP to complement traditional lecture-based approaches, fostering comprehensive understanding and preparation of medical students for clinical practice.
Insecticidal activities and comparative efficacy of essential oils of three Citrus species (Sapindales: Rutaceae) against Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes
Authors: Adelaja O. J. , Abiola E. A. , Awodoyin T. I. , Adelaja A. R. , Ore H. T. , Oduola A. O. , Ande A. T.
Published: January 2025

Essential oils (EOs) from insecticidal plants are becoming prominent again because of their effectiveness in managing disease vectors as well as their eco-friendly nature. The present study evaluated the insecticidal activity of three Citrus species, namely Citrus limon, C. sinensis, and C. aurantifolia, against larvae and adults of Anopheles gambiae. These fully mature Citrus species collected from Ilorin, Nigeria, were extracted, and the chemical components were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The EOs extracted were then assessed for toxicity efficacy against larvae and adults of An. gambiae using WHO protocols. Citral was a major component identified in C. aurantifolia, D-limonene in C. limon and Myrtenol in C. sinensis. The highest percentage knockdown was recorded in 0.3 ml of C. limon (95.6±1.15 mosquitoes) against An. gambiae, while the lowest KDT50 and KDT90 were found in 0.5ml of C. aurantifolia (5.79 mins) and C. limon (19.61 mins), respectively. A 100% mortality rate was observed in adult female An. gambiae at concentrations of 0.1 ml of C. limon and 0.3 ml of both C. limon and C. aurantifolia. This result was not significantly different from the 99% mortality rate observed with the control, deltamethrin. Additionally, 100% mortality was recorded in An. gambiae larvae at 0.3 ml of both C. aurantifolia and C. limon after 48 hours of exposure. The lowest LT50 and LT90 values were recorded at 0.5 ml of C. limon, with times of 3.86 hours and 9.49 hours, respectively. The three citrus oils evaluated demonstrated significant adulticidal and larvicidal bioactivities, indicating promising outcomes that can be further developed for An. gambiae management.
Relationship between milk stability and physico-chemical characteristics of raw milk of different breeds during storage at ambient temperature
Authors: Pasan A. J. R. P. , Prasantha B. D. R. , Amarathunga K. S. P.
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the relationship between milk stability and physico-chemical characteristics of raw milk of four cow breeds in Sri Lanka: Sahiwal, Friesian Cross, Jersey Cross, and Australian Friesian Sahiwal. This study examined the changes in electrical conductivity (EC), pH, turbidity, and total soluble solids (TSS%) during an 8 h storage period at ambient temperature (28±1 oC) and their correlation with the alcohol test results as a platform test. Results indicated that EC did not significantly change in the raw milk samples of Sahiwal, Friesian cross, or Australian Friesian Sahiwal breeds. Milk pH of all samples decreased with the storage period; however, significant (P<0.05) reductions of pH were observed in the Jersey cross and Australian Friesian Sahiwal breeds, compared to their initial pH of the raw milk samples 6.10±0.2 and 6.36±0.2, respectively.  The turbidity of raw milk samples of the four cow breeds was significantly increased with the storage period (P<0.05). Australian Friesian Sahiwal breeds showed the highest turbidity development (241.0±3.7 NTU) while Jersey Crossbreeds showed the significantly (P<0.05) lowest turbidity development of 191.2±11.3 NTU. Both Sahiwal and Jersey Cross breeds significantly decreased (P<0.05) TSS content from 9.35 to 7.10% and 9.25 to 7.25% respectively with the storage period. The chi-square results indicated that there is no significant association (P>0.05) between alcohol test and the milk samples obtained from the different breeds. The significant negative correlation of turbidity (ρ>-0.8; P<0.05) and TSS% (ρ>-0.4; P<0.05) showed with the alcohol test in all cow breeds. Binary logistic regression results showed that the significant correlation between alcohol test and milk turbidity (Wald X2 = 4.44, P<0.05). These findings highlight measuring the turbidity of raw milk would be a critical parameter for assessing milk stability and development of an in-situ instrument to quantitatively detect raw milk turbidity instead of the qualitative alcohol test.
Review of the potential of bioactive compounds in seaweed to reduce histamine formation in fish and fish products
Authors: Maskur Muhammad , Prihanto Asep Awaludin , Firdaus Muhamad , Kobun Rovina , Nurdiani Rahmi
Published: January 2025

The formation of histamine in food is influenced by temperature, and histamine growth can be inhibited by maintaining a cold chain. However, simply relying on temperature control is insufficient, as certain bacteria can produce the enzyme histidine decarboxylase even at temperatures below 5°C. To address this issue, various methods, such as modified atmosphere packaging, high hydrostatic pressure, and irradiation, have been developed to control histamine in fishery products. However, these methods often require significant investments. Therefore, there is a need for a cost-effective solution to overcome this problem. This review explores a cost-effective solution through the utilization of bioactive compounds derived from underexplored seaweeds. Seaweed bioactive compounds, either in their pure form or as extracts, offer a promising alternative method to regulate histamine generation in fishery products due to their antibacterial activity, and this review provides comprehensive insights into the potential of different seaweed-derived bioactive compounds as inhibitors of histamine production, detailing their diverse applications in fishery products. It also explores the mechanism by which bioactive compounds prevent histamine formation by bacteria, focusing on the potential of seaweed bioactive compounds to inhibit bacterial histidine decarboxylase. Future trends in the inhibition of histidine decarboxylation are also discussed. The bioactive compounds considered, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenes, and phenolic acids, exhibit their antibacterial effects through various mechanisms, including the inhibition of DNA and RNA synthesis, disruption of cytoplasmic and cell membranes, and inhibition of enzymes by reacting with sulfhydryl groups on proteins. In conclusion, the integration of underexplored seaweeds in fishery product preservation represents a promising and innovative approach for future food safety and sustainability.
Removal of Expression of Concern for ‘Lipid-lowering therapy in patients with coronary heart disease: an Italian real-life survey. Results from the Survey on Risk FactOrs and CardiovascuLar secondary prevention and drug strategieS (SOFOCLES) in Italy’
Authors: Monaldi Archives for Chest Disease Editors The
Published: January 2025

Removal of Expression of Concern for ‘Lipid-lowering therapy in patients with coronary heart disease: an Italian real-life survey. Results from the Survey on Risk FactOrs and CardiovascuLar secondary prevention and drug strategieS (SOFOCLES) in Italy’ by Caterina Oriana Aragona et al., Monaldi Arch Chest Dis, 2024, Accepted Manuscript, https://doi.org/10.4081/monaldi.2024.2972 IF: 1.1 Q4 NA
 
The Editors and Publisher of the Monaldi Archives for Chest Disease are publishing this removal of expression of concern to inform readers that the investigation is complete and all earlier issues have been addressed.This notice supersedes the information provided in the Expression of Concern related to this article (https://www.monaldi-archives.org/macd/article/view/3259).
Empowering church leaders for service in Africa: Situational Holistic Pastoral Ministry paradigm
Authors: Hove Rabson
Published: January 2025

Empowering church leaders globally is a contested terrain, particularly in Africa. This article explores the challenges and pitfalls of church leadership on the continent. It not only examines the complexities of contemporary African church leadership but also proposes strategies for modelling its transformative development. The focus is on critically assessing how church leaders can be empowered to transform both the church and communities in Africa through the Situational Holistic Pastoral Ministry (SHPM) paradigm. The article argues that numerous challenges in Africa can be mitigated by equipping church leaders for transformative roles. A key issue identified is the tendency to idolise clergy, placing them at the centre of ministry, rather than fostering their role as models who empower others. Drawing on insights from SHPM theory, this article evaluates the empowerment of church leaders for transformative action within the African context. It concludes by emphasising the need to empower church leaders to facilitate the transformation of both the church and its surrounding communities.Contribution: This article contributes to the discourse on ethical Christian leadership by advocating role-modelling servant leadership as opposed to idolisation. It posits that empowering church leaders is essential for addressing the myriad challenges confronting churches and communities in sub-Saharan Africa.
Mia Couto and the enchantment of rain
Authors: Hooper Myrtle J. , Rawlins Isabel B.
Published: January 2025

In his preface to Rain and Other Stories, Mia Couto refers to the remaking of the world following the Mozambican civil war: ‘we soak our faces in this rain of hope, this water of benedreamtion’. Pluvial rain, as Nuttall terms it, can bring huge destruction, as can drought, its absence. Scholars have insisted on the agency of water, including African ecocritics who argue for an ‘animist conception of the world’ which transposes and transgresses boundaries and identities. Garuba specifically refers to the ‘persistent re-enchantment of the world’ whereby the ‘rational and scientific are appropriated and transformed into the mystical and magical’. This article explores the range of roles, agentic and enchanted, which Couto accords rain in his stories. Although he rejected the label ‘magic realist’, his translator Chabal argues that in his stories the fantastic ‘transmutes the fictitious into the factual’ so that ‘all boundaries are put into question’: between past and present, far and near, material and spiritual. And he seeks to regain the ‘brotherhood’, the ‘relation’, the ‘link between nature and humanity’. Ashcroft says Couto’s vision as a writer is to ‘give back to the word its divine power … the power to enchant things, be these trees, birds, or landscapes’. Samuelson too claims that Couto’s stories ‘invoke an enlivening ecocritical method’ that draws readers into a ‘sacred web’, an ‘indivisible body, an ‘interconnected world’. While the notion of enchantment is not unproblematic, the interconnections it entails between human and environment, material and spiritual, generate a receptive matrix in which to understand and recognise the agency of rain.Contribution: This article engages with ecocritical readings of the stories of Mia Couto by examining his treatment of rain and his approach to the issue of enchantment. It thus contributes to criticism of his work as well as to the growing field of ecocriticism in this country.
Microalgae: A Treasure Trove of Anticancer Nutraceuticals and Promising Therapeutic Mechanisms
Authors: Masoumi Sajjad , Zokaei Maryam , Ahmadvand Ardavan , Ghalamkarpour Nogol , Asadimanesh Naghmeh , Azarimatin Armin , Fattah Khashayar , Payandeh Zahra , Rostami Masoumeh , Farjami Afsaneh , Pandey Rajan Kumar , Nabi-Afjadi Mohsen
Published: January 2025

With cancer remaining a global health concern, the need for new and effective preventive and treatment methods is paramount. Microalgae have emerged as a potential source of anticancer nutraceuticals. Our research indicates that substances produced from microalgae, such as carotenoids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, phycocyanin, and polysaccharides, have shown anticancer effects in both laboratory and human investigations. Carotenoids, including astaxanthin, have shown the ability to hinder the development of tumors and trigger programmed cell death (apoptosis) in several types of cancer cells. Moreover, studies have shown that phycocyanin, a blue pigment present in some species of microalgae, has properties that help reduce inflammation and combat cancer. Potential future research directions include expanding the scope of the study to encompass a diverse range of microalgae species, identifying other compounds with anticancer properties, and investigating the mechanisms by which chemicals derived from microalgae function in the treatment and prevention of cancer. Moreover, it is important to establish scalable and sustainable procedures for the industrial production of compounds derived from microalgae. In conclusion, our evaluation reveals that microalgae have enormous potential as a source of anticancer nutraceuticals, containing a variety of bioactive substances that could eventually lead to the development of novel and effective cancer prevention and treatment methods. To realize the maximum potential of chemicals derived from microalgae, it is necessary to develop a sustainable and environmentally benign industry and to continue research in this area.
Determining the Diagnostic Value of DWIBS in the Diagnosis of Breast Lesions Compared to Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MRI: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Farghadani Maryam , Mozafari Safura , Riahinejad Maryam , Haghighi Mashid , Samani Reza Eshraghi , Taravati Amir Mohammad , Rostami Koushan , Shahrokh Seyedeh Ghazal , Sadeghian Arezoo
Published: January 2025

Background:

Diffusion-weighted imaging with background body signal suppression (DWIBS) is a new imaging tool for the diagnosis of breast lesions. This study aims to compare DWIBS with contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (CE-MRI) sequences.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty consecutive patients underwent both CE-MRI and DWIBS images. DWIBS was assessed qualitatively and quantitatively using the apparent diffusion coefficient mapping. A threshold of 1.44 × 10-3 mm2/s was considered as a cutoff value between malignant and benign lesions. CE-MRI images were evaluated based on a combination of kinetic and morphological information and reported using Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System lexicon. Statistical analysis was performed for both sequences based on pathologic findings as a gold standard.

Results:

Fifty-five out of 80 lesions (69%) were benign, and 25 malignant lesions (31%) have been reported. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for CE-MRI were 100, 38, 42, and 100%, respectively, and those for DWIBS were 77, 70, 53, and 87%, respectively. By comparing DWIBS and CE-MRI data, no statistically significant difference was reported.

Conclusion:

DWIBS can be used as an effective alternative for breast CE-MRI in cases of contradictions of IV contrast injection.
Examining the Frequency of Clinical and Paraclinical Symptoms in Opium Addicts Hospitalized Due to Lead Poisoning in Isfahan Province
Authors: Kalantari Hamid , Gheshlaghi Farzad , Etezadi Marzieh
Published: January 2025

Background:

Substance abuse and its consequences are major health hazards in the world. Opium addiction is a common form of substance abuse in Iran. The present study aims to examine the frequency of clinical and paraclinical symptoms of lead poisoning in opium users in the city of Isfahan.

Materials and Methods:

The current study is a cross-sectional study on patients with oral or inhaled consumption of opium or its derivatives, presenting with one of the clinical or laboratory symptoms of lead poisoning. Information related to the age and sex of the patients, duration and manner of opium consumption, clinical symptoms, and laboratory findings of patients were extracted from their files.

Results:

Three hundred opium user patients poisoned with lead were evaluated. 96.3% of the patients were men. The average age of the participants was 47.67 ± 11.57 years, and the average duration of opium use was 5.34 ± 6.95 years. The most frequent clinical symptom was abdominal pain (98%), followed by constipation (11.33%), nausea (9%), and vomiting (8.33%). 33.3% of people had an increase in AST, 17.1% of people had an increase in ALT, and 88.3% of people had an increase in ALP.

Conclusion:

We found that the most frequent clinical symptom was abdominal pain. 33.3% of people had an increase in AST, 17.1% of people had an increase in ALT, 88.3% of people had an increase in ALP and, 4% had an increase in creatine. Further studies are recommended.
A Comparative Analysis of Antibacterial Efficacy of Triple Antibiotic Paste and Modified Triple Antibiotic Paste against Enterococcus faecalis: An In vitro Study
Authors: Raut Ambar W. , Shenoi Pratima R.
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

Triple antibiotic paste (TAP), which is a mixture of ciprofloxacin, metronidazole, and minocycline, is a commonly used intracanal medicament in root canal therapy, especially in regenerative endodontic procedures. The study aimed to evaluate and compare the antimicrobial effectiveness of conventional TAP and amoxicillin modified-TAP against Enterococcus faecalis.

Materials and Methods:

Antimicrobial effectiveness of the medicaments against E. faecalis was assessed using the agar diffusion test: conventional TAP containing ciprofloxacin, metronidazole, and minocycline in 1:1:1 ratio and modified TAP containing ciprofloxacin, metronidazole, and amoxicillin in 1:1:1 ratio. Distilled water was used as control. Two hundred microliters of each of the intracanal medicament were placed on the top of the agar plates, followed by incubation of the plates for 24 h at 37°C. The plates were examined for zones of inhibition of microbial growth after incubation period. The diameters of the zones were evaluated and measured in millimeters.

Results:

The mean zone of inhibition in TAP and modified TAP was 32 and 31.5 mm, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between TAP and modified TAP (P = 0.3917).

Conclusion:

Amoxicillin-modified TAP was as effective as conventional TAP, against E. faecalis and thus may be used as its alternative.
Idiopathic progressive tractional corectopia successfully managed by surgical intervention
Authors: Lokhandwala Fatema , Rawat Urmila , Ramchandani Suresh , Kumari Mamta
Published: January 2025

Idiopathic progressive tractional corectopia (IPTC) is a rare, isolated, stationary, or progressive condition in infants. We report a case of an 11-month-old baby presenting with a left eye (LE) divergent squint and a slit-like eccentric pupil. Vision could not be formally recorded in this infant, but it was presumably very poor, as she would not allow occlusion of the right eye and was disturbed by this action. Fundus examination was not feasible in the LE due to a nondilating pupil, while the fundus of the RE was normal. The ultrasound B-scan was unremarkable. No underlying systemic abnormalities were identified, leading to a diagnosis of IPTC, for which she underwent central iridectomy.
Isolated ocular involvement in acute lymphoblastic leukemia with optic nerve infiltration: An indicator of relapse! - Case series
Authors: Banerjee Mousumi , Azad Shorya Vardhan , Venkatesh Pradeep , Verma Saurabh , Virani Baijukumar R , Ghosh Tapashree
Published: January 2025

The ophthalmic evaluation may indicate early relapses of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) even in the presence of normal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cytology, blood, and bone marrow parameters. A high degree of suspicion in patients having visual dysfunction in ALL may help in early diagnosis and prompt initiation of treatment. We present a case series of five ALL patients with optic nerve head (ONH) involvement as the first sign of central nervous system (CNS) relapse with normal CSF, blood, and bone marrow parameters Though it is difficult to objectively specify a window period during which initiation of treatment can maximize the chances of visual recovery, we can emphasize that prompt initiation of treatment (preferably not exceeding more than a week interval) might have a more favorable visual outcome. We present a case series of five ALL patients with ONH involvement as the first sign of CNS relapse with normal CSF, blood, and bone marrow parameters.
Maneuvering challenges of simultaneous bilateral pediatric cataract surgery in an infant with syndromic features
Authors: Nanavati Hardik , Sheth Jenil , Rawlani Sujata , Rao Raja N.
Published: January 2025

Simultaneous bilateral cataract surgery in children is debated due to risks of complications like endophthalmitis and retinal detachment. Children with congenital cataracts often have systemic comorbidities and syndromic features, making anesthesia administration challenging due to difficult airway management, cardiac anomalies, and other systemic issues. We present a syndromic infant with bilateral cataracts and systemic comorbidities. To minimize anesthesia exposure and due to the limited availability of specialists, we opted for bilateral surgery. An interdisciplinary team, including pediatric ophthalmologists, intensivists, and anesthesiologists, managed the case. The surgery involved simultaneous lens aspiration, primary posterior capsulotomy, and planned surgical aphakia using meticulous techniques. A protocol was followed to separate the two surgeries performed in the same session, ensuring sterile precautions with a single surgeon. This case highlights anesthetic concerns in syndromic children undergoing bilateral cataract surgery and emphasizes the need for delinking surgeries with adequate aseptic measures.
Sinusitis-induced optic neuropathy associated with neovascular glaucoma and retinal ischemia: An unusual presentation of a forgotten disease
Authors: Bui Tommy , Khair Diana , Gowder Mangayarkarasi T A
Published: January 2025

Optic neuropathy related to chronic sphenoid sinusitis is uncommon but is a possible cause of vision loss due to the optic nerve’s anatomical proximity to the sphenoid sinus. Herein, we present a unique case of optic neuropathy and neovascular glaucoma associated with chronic sphenoid sinusitis.
Magnetic resonance imaging patterns of vascular lesions involving cavernous sinus with ophthalmic manifestations
Authors: Yadav Rajeev , Namrata  , Ranjan Rahul S , Gupta Simran , Arora Pragya , Garg Anuj , Varshney Sumedha
Published: January 2025

The cavernous sinuses are paired venous structures that have drainage from head and face structures including orbits. These are involved in various pathologies, including vascular, inflammatory, infective, and neoplastic. Out of these, vascular pathologies form an important group and can be easily diagnosed with magnetic resonance imaging. Therefore, knowledge of salient imaging findings of these entities is important for an ophthalmologist. In this case series/pictorial review, we present imaging findings of various vascular lesions affecting cavernous sinus with ophthalmic manifestations/implications.
Complex pediatric cataract surgery in the presence of anterior segment dysgenesis: A case report
Authors: Yulia Dian E , Barliana Julie D , Celcilia Laureen
Published: January 2025

Congenital cataract is the most common cause of treatable childhood blindness worldwide, and it may coexist with other ocular abnormalities such as corneal opacities and iris deformities. This case report presents the challenging management of congenital cataracts associated with anterior segment dysgenesis (ASD) in a 5-year-old male patient. The patient presented with bilateral corneal adherent leukomas, iridocorneal synechiae, and cataracts, which resulted in severe visual impairment. The best-corrected visual acuity was 3/60 in the left eye (LE) and 0.5/60 in the right eye (RE). Cataract extraction, synechiolysis, primary posterior capsulotomy, and anterior vitrectomy, as well as intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, were performed on the LE eye under general anesthesia. During the follow-up examination, the IOL was stable and no postoperative complications were found. This report highlights the complexity of cataract management in the presence of ASD, where corneal and iris abnormalities increase surgical risk and complicate prognosis. The shortage of corneal donors for corneal surgery makes it even more difficult to achieve optimal visual results. This case emphasizes the need for alternative strategies when traditional keratoplasty is not feasible to improve surgical outcomes and prevent childhood blindness.
Paediatric IgG4 related ophthalmic disease (IgG4-ROD) presenting as bilateral dacryoadenitis. A case report
Authors: Benedicto Nicholaus , Tanwar Meghana , Kitaguch Yoshiyuki , Kim Usha
Published: January 2025

A 15-year-old male presented with recurrent, episodic, bilateral eyelid swelling over two days. On examination, he exhibited bilateral eyelid edema, a superotemporal mass, proptosis, and limitation in extraocular motility. Laboratory findings revealed elevated ESR, CRP, and IgG4 serum levels, with negative ANA, ANCA, and ACE. MRI reported symmetrical enlargement of the lacrimal glands with homogeneous enhancement and diffuse restriction. The diagnosis was orbital IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) manifesting as bilateral dacryoadenitis, which responded remarkably to systemic steroids. After two years of treatment with immunosuppressants, he experienced no relapses. We share this case to alert clinicians to IgG4-related orbitopathy (IgG4-ROD) in young patients, so that prompt diagnosis and management can be instituted for optimal results.
Branch retinal arterial occlusion following vitrectomy for premacular hemorrhage secondary to retinal artery macroaneurysm
Authors: Panigrahi Pradeep Kumar , Saurabh Kumar , Roy Rupak
Published: January 2025

A 65-year-old man presented with a sudden onset diminution of vision in his right eye for the last 1 month. He was diagnosed with retinal macroaneurysm with sub-internal limiting membrane bleed. The patient underwent a 23 gauge pars plana vitrectomy. Endolaser photocoagulation was applied to the lesion at the end of surgery. Branch retinal artery occlusion distal to the lesion was noted on the first postoperative day. Nil intervention was conducted for the arterial occlusion. Surgeons should be aware of this potential complication. Alternate strategies in the postoperative period should be tried to prevent this complication.
Intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia (Masson’s tumor) a rare tumor of eyelid presenting in the background of pyogenic granuloma: A case report
Authors: Shwetha N C , Rashmi G , Minal Jessica , Sudeep N S
Published: January 2025

Intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia (IPEH), also known as Masson’s tumor, is a rare benign lesion typically found in the skin and subcutaneous tissue. The condition is vascular in nature, characterized by an increased proliferation of endothelial cells, a definitive diagnosis of which can be made through histopathological examination. Though rare, there have been reported cases of IPEH in the periorbital region and eyelids, but there are no reported cases of IPEH in the background of pyogenic granuloma. We report a case of IPEH of the eyelid arising in the background of pyogenic granuloma at an early presentation stage.
Ocular pseudopemphigoid associated with pembrolizumab immunotherapy
Authors: Martín-Herrero Andrea , Prieto-del-Cura Maria del Mar , Hristova-Yadkova Vyara , Carballés María José Crespo
Published: January 2025

We describe an unusual case of bilateral ocular pseudopemphigoid associated with pembrolizumab therapy for stage IV lung adenocarcinoma. A 66-year-old man presented with bilateral scarring conjunctivitis, symblepharon formation, forniceal foreshortening, epithelial defects, and mild corneal edema, simulating ocular mucus membrane pemphigoid. No blisters or ulcers were found elsewhere. Diagnosis revealed an immune-related adverse event secondary to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Treatment involved pembrolizumab discontinuation and high-dose oral corticosteroids in addition to adjunctive topical therapies, which led to gradual but complete visual recovery over 4 months. This case highlights the importance of recognizing and managing rare ocular manifestations of immune checkpoint inhibitors quickly.
State Capacity and Trade in the Ethiopia-Somali Borderlands
Authors: Tezera Tazebew  , Asnake Kefale
Published: January 2025

Cross-border trade is an enduring feature of African borderlands. Ethiopia had a long history of informal economic relations in its frontiers. This study examined the prevalent trends of economic relations in the Ethiopia-Somaliland borderlands, with particular reference to the post-1991 period. These trends are assessed in the context of the entrenchment of state authority. The paper found that ‘informal’ trade, which is pervasive in these borderlands, is not as such informal. Indeed, the distinction between formal and informal is found to be imprecise. The conventional view holds that the presence of a large size of informal economy is a manifestation of state’s weakness. Contrary to the conventional wisdom, this paper shows that state capacity is not something to be owned or possessed but rather is a result of a multifaceted negotiation of actors on the ground.
Adwa in Ethiopia’s High School History Curriculum: The Interface among History, Pedagogy, Ideology and Nation Building
Authors: Girma Negash
Published: January 2025

The principal objective of this research is to assess the representation of Adwa in the Ethiopian secondary school curricular resources, especially textbooks and syllabus. I argue in this study that Adwa has not been given the coverage it deserves in Ethiopian secondary school curricular materials; syllabus, text books and other teaching-learning resources. I claim that high school history during the two regimes, the Derg and the EPRDF, has not been sufficiently exploited to promote our national consciousness, our historical achievements and the nation’s glorious past. The study demonstrates the linkage between power and knowledge creation, and the historical truism that states tend to support educational system and policy that guarantees their own survival and perpetuation. By so doing thestudy purports the instrumentality of Adwa in fostering community cohesion, patriotism, a sense of common past and other useful civic virtues, an objectivewhich had not been adequately exploited thus far. This study therefore aims to demonstrate (mainly on the basis of content analysis of the resources at hand) that our shared common past such as the victory of Adwa had not been given the coverage it deserves in Ethiopian Secondary School curricular resources, reiterating that this has been a missed opportunity to promote community cohesion and national unity.
Harnessing Indigenous Knowledge for Sustainable Pastoralist Education Development in Ethiopia
Authors: Ziyn Engdasew
Published: January 2025

There is a renewal of interest in the role of indigenous knowledge for marginalized societies after a long period of disregard for its contribution to sustainable development and educational relevance. The attention being given to indigenous knowledge is apparent in the role that it plays in human and animal health care, the use and management of natural resources, education, poverty alleviation, and community resilience and livelihoods. Recognizing and considering indigenous knowledge in development planning can also be viewed as a response to a given community's quest for the right of self-determination and the preservation of cultural identities. Research is generating more and more data showing the relevance of indigenous knowledge for the sustainable development of the pastoralist community. This article attempted to review and advocate the need to harness indigenous knowledge in the education system of the pastoralist community in Ethiopia. The study’s methodology was a qualitative document review with critical reflections in view of understanding the role of indigenous knowledge for pastoralist development and the need to integrate it into the pastoralist education curriculum in Ethiopia. I concluded that if indigenous knowledge is to play its part in effecting sustainable development, there is a need for the systematic harnessing of informal and non-formal educational programs of the pastoralist community in Ethiopia.
Some Aspects of Medieval Historic Town Management Tradition in the Book of Aksum
Authors: Matiyas Bekele Fantaye  , Abba Girum Beaman  , Antonio Patruno  , Claus-Peter Echter
Published: January 2025

Short Communication: Some Aspects of Medieval Historic Town Management Tradition in the Book of Aksum