bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parents' Opinion on the Effects of Aquatic Physiotherapy on Delayed Motor Development in Infants
Authors: Klovaitė Austėja
Published: December 2024

Background. Aquatic therapy is commonly utilized in the rehabilitation of children with developmental disabilities and as a form of physical activity in water for children without developmental disabilities.
The aim. To analyze parents' opinions regarding the impact of physiotherapy in water on the delayed motor development of babies aged 2–9 months.
Methods. Ten parents whose babies were diagnosed with motor developmental disorders and received aquatic physical therapy for motor developmental delay were interviewed during the study. A semi-structured interview comprising 18 questions was employed in the qualitative study.
Results. The study revealed that parents often notice developmental disorders in their babies when they fail to achieve age-appropriate milestones, leading to later diagnosis by doctors. Following the diagnosis of motor development disorders, doctors recommended various treatment methods to the participants. While parents primarily selected physiotherapy as the main treatment method, they also opted for aquatic physiotherapy as an additional approach for enhanced effectiveness. The Halliwick method was commonly employed to address motor development disorders. Almost all participants expressed willingness to recommend aquatic physiotherapy to friends or acquaintances if their children were diagnosed with motor development disorders.
Conclusions. Parents emphasized that water physiotherapy improved their babies' motor skills and had a calming and relaxing effect. Most interviewees indicated a positive inclination towards recommending aquatic physiotherapy, considering it an effective intervention.
 
Keywords: physical therapy in water, motor development, parents, attitudes, babies.
Extra Physical Activities Positively Affect Balance in Children Aged 5–11 Years
Authors: Nur Surucu Elif , Budrienė Lina
Published: December 2024

Background. Extra-physical activities (EPA) are necessary for children because they contribute to the development of motor skills and general development.
The aim. To evaluate the effect of EPA on balance, measured with the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test-2 (BOT-2), in children aged 5–11 years old.
Methods. This study was designed as a cross-sectional study. Children (n = 68) aged 5–11 years were divided into two groups depending on the activity they participated in. 36 children participated in standard physical education (physical education group, PEG) lessons, and 32 children attended extra-physical activities (EPA). Nine subscales of the BOT-2 balance test were evaluated and compared between balanced PEG and EPA.  
Results. An independent sample t-test revealed a significant difference in balance between PEG and EPG (t (66) = -2.2, p = 0.02), with EPG being greater than PEG. A Kruskal-Wallis test revealed no difference in EPA specificity (H = 3.62, df = 6, p = 0.72) or the EPA participation frequency (H (4) = 0.93, p = 0.92).
Conclusion. The extra physical activity group performed better in balance than the physical education group. This finding suggests a role for extra physical activity in promoting balance. The frequency and specificity of participation in extra-physical activities did not influence the balance.
Keywords: balance, motor skills, motor development, physical activity
Finding determinants of leisure participation among older adults in Kosovo: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Shabani Arta Dalipi , Taganoviq Besarta , Kryeziu Blerta , Şahin Dilek , Denieffe Suzanne , Denny Margaret
Published: December 2024

Background. The proportion of the population over 65 years is continuously increasing worldwide. This trend reflects global patterns, emphasizing the need for policies that promote active aging.
Aim. To investigate participation in leisure activities and compare it with sociodemographic variables among older adults in Kosovo.
Methods. A cross-sectional study was carried out among individuals aged 65 and older in three largest cities in Kosovo. The assessment of leisure activities was performed using the validated Leisure Participation Questionnaire, which includes 25 activities categorized into four types: recreational (physical), cognitive, social, and productive. The frequency of participation was evaluated on a 6-point scale, and its relationship with sociodemographic factors was examined through multiple linear regression analysis.
Results. 366 participants completed the questionnaire (53.3% women; 46.7% men). The majority were married (69.4%) and lived with their families (66.4%). Overall, the most commonly reported daily activity was watching TV (52.7%), while the least common was fishing (0.3%). Factors associated with lower recreational activity included older age (B = -0.30, p < 0.01), being female (B = -0.33, p < 0.01), graduating from primary education (B = -0.40, p < 0.01), poor health (B = -0.45, p < 0.01), and having a chronic illness (B = -0.22, p < 0.01).
Conclusions. Several sociodemographic variables (i.e., education level, overall health condition, gender, and locality) were significant determinants of leisure participation among older adults in Kosovo.
Keywords: active aging; physical activity; leisure engagement .
Unraveling the Link: Examining the Influence of Dollar Strength on Dirty Tanker Freight Rates
Authors: Okudan Soytürk Havva , Açık Abdullah
Published: December 2024

This study explores the asymmetric relationship between the U.S. dollar index (DXY) and dirty tanker freight rates, a largely unexamined area within maritime economics despite the dollar’s profound influence on global oil prices and economic stability. Tanker shipping, the primary mode of transportation for global oil and a capital-intensive sector, plays a crucial role in oil supply chains. Given that oil prices are quoted in U.S. dollars, fluctuations in dollar strength directly impact oil costs, demand for tankers, and the operational costs of tanker shipping. This study employs an asymmetric model, recognizing that dollar value changes affect the tanker market differently depending on whether the dollar is strengthening or weakening. Findings reveal that decreases in the DXY drive up tanker freight rates, while increases do not correspondingly decrease rates, highlighting the unique non-linear dynamics between currency strength and freight costs. This asymmetric approach provides a more accurate framework for understanding these interactions than traditional linear models.
Work-Life Balance, Employee Workload, Leadership Style In Its Influence On Turnover Intention At Bina Insan Foundation
Authors: Puspitasari Fadilla Ayu , Rizqi Maulidyah Amalina
Published: December 2024

This study aims to examine the effect of work-life balance, employee workload, and leadership style on turnover intention in employees at Yayasan Bina Insan. A random sample of 99 employees was used in the multiple linear regression analysis. Questionnaires are used to collect data, which assesses factors such as work-life balance, workload, leadership style, and intention to leave. Leadership style has a smaller but still considerable beneficial effect on turnover intention, while work-life balance and employee workload also have a large positive effect. According to the R² coefficient, the three independent factors account for 67% of the variance in turnover intention. Based on these results, it is recommended that companies improve work-life balance and manage employee workload more effectively, as well as improve supportive leadership styles to reduce turnover rates.
Application of Lorentz transformations to the Schwarzschild metric
Authors: Belayev Vladimir
Published: December 2024

Lorentz transformations are applied to the isotropic Schwarzschild metric. The change in the flow of time obtained from the geodetic equations is consistent with the annual fluctuations in the frequency of the signal from Pioneer 10.
Transforming ‘systems’: Which? How? Whose? Why? Whither? Whence? System Analysis and Critical Systems Thinking in Transitions Research
Authors: Pel Bonno , Stirling Andrew
Published: December 2024

Transitions research has gained traction in sustainability studies for its systemic approach to environmental challenges. A central tenet is that the persistence of these challenges can be attributed to ‘system failures’, and that system innovation is needed, i.e. a multitude of innovations that co-evolve into system-wide transformations. However, many contrasting views of ‘systems’ and ‘systemic frameworks’ are seemingly always clamouring for attention, whilst it is not always clear what they’re referring to. Taking a reflexive methodology approach, this chapter addresses recurring questions: Transforming ‘systems’: Which? How? Whose? Why? Whither? Whence? For instance, is transitioning the ‘mobility system’ a matter of electrification or of unlearning car dependency? In transitioning the ‘energy system’, is importation of rare minerals a central part or an externality? The chapter presents a methodological overview of systems analysis in transitions research. It brings out how transitions research has developed a fine sense of Critical Systems Thinking. On the other hand, it also shows the need for further methodological reflection on the study of transitioning ‘systems’.
PERANCANGAN SISTEM EXIT PERMIT BERBASIS WEB PADA DORMITORY MUKAKUNING
Authors: Halimah Tussa'Adiyah Halimah , Sitohang Sunarsan
Published: December 2024

As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads to 216 countries, outdoor activities such as sports, shopping, traveling, and even working at home are reduced to reduce the spread of the virus. This also affected employees living in the Batam dormitory. They have to ask the supervisor for permission to leave if they want to do things outside the dormitory area. However, the licensing system in the Mukakuning dormitory is still done manually, with a permission letter requested from the supervisor's office for permission to leave. This causes many licensing problems, one of which is the difficulty of getting an exit permit. which serves for a more organized and safer licensing process. The design of this system is carried out using the waterfall method, which is used in this study because this method is easier to use and easier to understand. The results showed that the web-based exit permit system can be used in the Mukakuning dormitory and can help more secure exit permit data collection. This system uses programming algorithms, QR cards, and black box system testing methods. The result is a system that is very well designed and can be used directly for the licensing process at the Mukakuning dormitory..
RANCANG BANGUN SISTEM INFORMASI PELAPORAN MAINTENANCE MESIN PT SCHNEIDER
Authors: Harefa Lusi , Ani Arnomo Sasa
Published: December 2024

In order to improve the quality of maintenance reports produced by PT.Schneider, a maintenance report information system that is easy to use and operates instantly is required. Accordingly, it is anticipated that this system would be able to provide users with security data reports and generate accurate information that can be used to support the process of developing technician training materials. where reports are now manually entered, written down, and then re-entered into an Excel file at the conclusion of the workday. This process is extremely inefficient. The goal of this project is to create a more user-friendly and efficient web-based machine maintenance reporting information system.
PENGARUH AUDIT TENURE, KOMISARIS INDEPENDEN, DAN FINANCIAL DISTRESS TERHADAP INTEGRITAS LAPORAN KEUANGAN
Authors: Sabilla Putri Fiddinina , Shanti Yunita Kurnia
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT
This research aims to empirically prove the influence of Audit Tenure, Independent Commissioners, and Financial Distress on the Integrity of Financial Statements. In this research, the independent variables used are Audit Tenure, Independent Commissioner, and Financial Distress, while the dependent variable used is Financial Report Integrity. This research was conducted by taking a sample of primary consumer goods sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) in 2018-2022. The type of data used in this research is secondary data in the form of financial reports that have been audited and published on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) from 2018-2022. The samples were collected using a purposive sampling method with the number of companies sampled being 36 companies with a research period of 5 years, so that 180 data were obtained. Power processing using the Microsoft Office Excel program and the Eviews 12 statistical program by analyzing descriptive statistics, model suitability tests, classical assumption tests, coefficient of determination, panel data regression analysis, F statistical tests, and T statistical tests. The results of this research show that: (1) Audit Tenure, Independent Commissioners, and Financial Distress have a simultaneous effect on the Integrity of Financial Statements, (2) Financial Distress has a positive effect on the Integrity of Financial Reports, (3) Audit Tenure has no effect on the Integrity of Financial Reports, (4) Independent Commissioners have no effect to the Integrity of Financial Statements.
Keywords: Audit Tenure, Independent Commissioner, Financial Distress,
Integrity of Financial Statements
Pengaruh Kinerja Keuangan Perusahaan dan Kepemilikan Institusional terhadap Tax Avoidance
Authors: Rini Dena Setya , Nurhayati Nurhayati
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT
This study aims to analyze the effect of company financial performance and institutional ownership on tax avoidance. This type of research is quantitative associative with secondary data sources. The population in this study is energy sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2018-2022. The data analysis technique in this study is the purposive sampling method, namely a technique that considers criteria, so that the sample obtained with this method is 10 companies. The results of the study show that the company's financial performance and institutional ownership have an effect on tax avoidance. Then, partially the company's financial performance variable has no effect on tax avoidance. While the institutional ownership variable has a negative effect on tax avoidance. These results are because the higher the institutional ownership, the lower the level of tax avoidance actions taken by the company.
 
ABSTRAK
Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh kinerja keuangan perusahaan dan kepemilikan institusional terhadap tax avoidance. Jenis penelitian ini adalah kuantitatif asosisatif dengan sumber data sekunder. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah Perusahaan sektor energi yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia tahun 2018-2022. Teknik analisis data dalam penelitian ini adalah metode purposive sampling yaitu teknik dengan memperhatikan kriteria, sehingga sampel yang didapatkan dengan metode tersebut 10 perusahaan. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa kinerja keuangan perusahaan dan kepemilikan institusional berpengaruh terhadap tax avoidance. Kemudian, secara parsial variabel kinerja keuangan perusahaan tidak berpengaruh terhadap tax avoidance. Sedangkan variabel kepemilikan institusional berpengaruh negatif terhadap tax avoidance. Hasil tersebut karena semakin tinggi kepemilikan institusional maka, semakin rendah tingkat tindakan tax avoidance yang dilakukan oleh perusahaan.
Keywords:Company Financial Performance, Institusional Ownership, Tax Avoidance
PENGARUH AUDIT REPORT LAG, KOMITE AUDIT DAN FINANCIAL DISTRESS TERHADAP OPINI AUDIT GOING CONCERN
Authors: Khasanah Uswatun , Napisah Napisah
Published: December 2024

This research was conducted with the aim of determining the influence of Audit Report Lag, Audit Committee, and Financial Distress on Going Concern Audit Opinions in transportation and logistics sub-sector service companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) in 2018-2022. This type of research is quantitative research using secondary data which can be accessed from old or personal websites of transportation sub-sector service companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI). This research uses a purposive sampling method, namely by taking samples from the population based on certain criteria. The research sample is based on the criteria of 19 companies with a research period of 5 years. The data analysis method used in this research is a statistical method that uses a logistic regression equation. Data analysis began by processing the data with Microsoft Excel, then logistic regression testing was carried out using Eviews version 12 software. The results of this research show that Audit Report Lag has an effect on going concern audit opinion; The audit committee has no influence on going concern audit opinion; Financial Distress influences going concern audit opinion.
Pengaruh Free Cash Flow, Company Growth, Collateralizable Asset dan Institusional Ownership terhadap Kebijakan Dividen
Authors: Marsela Vinka , Azzahra Khoirunnisa
Published: December 2024

This research aims to provide emprical evidence that there is an influence of the of free cash flow, company growth, collateralizable assets, and institusional ownership on divedend policy in properties and real estate sector companies listed on the IDX (Indonesia Stock Exchange) for the 2018 -2022 period. The number of research samples is 7 sector companies properties and real estate determined based on the purposive sampling method. The method used is multiple linear regression, descriptive statistical test, panel data regression model analysis, fiexed effect model selection test, classical assumption test, multiple linear test and hypothesis test with the help of e-views version 12 statistical data processing. The results of this research show that free cash flow, company growth, collateralizable assets and institusional ownership simultaneously have a significant effect on dividen policy and the t test states thas free cash flow has a significant effect on dividen policy. The variables company growth, collateralizable assets, and institusional ownership have no effect significant to dividen policy.
Pengaruh Related Party Transaction terhadap Nilai Perusahaan yang Dimediasi oleh Tax Avoidance
Authors: Jao Robert , Tangke Paulus , Holly Anthony , Mardiana Ana , Nontji Meifilia
Published: December 2024

This research investigates the influence of related party transactions on firm value mediated by tax avoidance. The theory used is agency theory to explain the relationship between variables. The population used is manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) during 2020-2022. The data sources used are secondary data in financial reports and annual reports obtained from the Indonesia Stock Exchange and the company's official website. The total sample is 99 company data for three years, selected using purposive sampling. The research results show that related party transactions positively and significantly influence tax avoidance. The research findings also found that tax avoidance has a negative and significant influence on firm value, and related party transactions have a negative and significant influence on firm value. Finally, this research finds that tax avoidance mediates the relationship between related party transactions and firm value.
PENGARUH BUDAYA KERJA, PELATIHAN DAN KEPRIBADIAN TERHADAP KEPUASAN KERJA SERTA IMPLIKASINYA PADA KOMITMEN ORGANISASIONAL
Authors: Romi Hutri Agus , Wisra Mefri Yudi
Published: December 2024

This study is how to improve organizational commitment (Empirical Study on Security Guards of Security Service Business Entities in Batam City) partially or simultaneously work culture, training, personality and job satisfaction towards organizational commitment. The research method used is descriptive and verification involving a research sample of 373 security guards. Hypothesis testing using structural equations (Structural Equation Modeling) with the LISREL 8.70 application program. This study proves that there is a positive and significant influence of work culture, training and personality variables on job satisfaction both partially and together with a contribution of 58%. This study proves that work culture, training, personality and job satisfaction variables influence organizational commitment with a contribution of 87% with the most dominant variable influencing organizational commitment being job satisfaction. While the most dominant variable influencing job satisfaction is work culture. Another finding from the results of this study is that job satisfaction functions as a mediating variable for the three exogenous variables on organizational commitment. This study recommends improving the performance of security guards at Security Service Business Entities in Batam City by paying attention to job satisfaction, especially in rewards.
IMPLEMENTASI ALGORITMA NAÏVE BAYES DALAM SISTEM PENGARSIPAN SURAT BERBASIS AI DI GPI PAPUA KLASIS MIMIKA PAPUA TENGAH
Authors: Indey Jennifer Florenzia , Supangat Supangat
Published: December 2024

Penelitian ini mengembangkan sistem informasi pengelolaan pengarsipan surat berbasis kecerdasan buatan bagi Lembaga GPI Papua Klasis Mimika di Papua Tengah, dengan fokus pada pengklasifikasian surat masuk menggunakan algoritma Naive Bayes. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mempermudah pencarian dan pemantauan dokumen serta meningkatkan efisiensi dan akurasi pengelolaan arsip surat. Dataset terdiri dari 50 data, yang mana 20 data merupakan data surat spam dan 30 data surat non-spam. Hasil pengujian menggunakan metode Confusion Matrix menunjukkan bahwa sistem memiliki akurasi sebesar 78%, presisi sebesar 88% untuk kategori spam, recall sebesar 73,3% untuk kategori spam, dan F1 Score sebesar 79,9%. Diharapkan dengan penerapan teknologi AI ini dapat membantu Lembaga GPI Papua Klasis Mimika di Papua Tengah dalam mengoptimalkan proses klasifikasi surat masuk, meminimalisir kesalahan dan meningkatkan efisiensi pengelolaan dokumen. Dengan menggunakan pendekatan berbasis AI, sistem juga dapat memberikan solusi praktis bagi pengelolaan arsip yang lebih efektif dan efisien, sehingga memungkinkan akses informasi yang dibutuhkan dapat dilakukan secara cepat dan tepat. Secara keseluruhan, penerapan teknologi AI dalam pengarsipan surat diharapkan tidak hanya meningkatkan produktivitas dan akurasi, tetapi juga memberikan landasan yang kuat untuk meningkatkan layanan dan efisiensi operasional di berbagai sektor dan lembaga.
ANALISIS SENTIMEN KOMENTAR PADA POSTINGAN INSTAGRAM AKUN “STANDWITHUS” MENGGUNAKAN KLASIFIKASI NAIVE BAYES
Authors: Khairunnisa Khairunnisa , Dewi Shanty Kurnia , Rahmawati Deisya Dzakiyyah , Sari Anggraini Puspita
Published: December 2024

Social media platforms like Instagram play a crucial role in shaping public opinion and fostering community engagement in the digital age. The "StandWithUs" Instagram account, dedicated to raising awareness and advocacy, has garnered significant attention and interaction through its posts. However, understanding the sentiment behind user comments on these posts remains challenging. This study addresses this issue by employing Naive Bayes Classification to analyze the sentiment of comments on the "StandWithUs" Instagram account. The primary objective is to accurately classify comments into positive, negative, or neutral categories, providing insights into public opinion and engagement.Our findings indicate that the Naive Bayes Classification model achieves high accuracy in sentiment identification when trained with a substantial dataset. This research highlights the effectiveness of Naive Bayes in conducting sentiment analysis on social media, underscoring its potential to enhance our understanding and management of public opinion on advocacy-related content. The implications of this study are significant, offering valuable perspectives on how social media sentiment analysis can be leveraged to gauge public reactions and involvement, ultimately contributing to more informed advocacy strategies and community engagement efforts.By accurately interpreting the sentiments of user comments, stakeholders can better understand public perception and tailor their content and messaging strategies to foster more meaningful and positive interactions within their digital communities.
MEDIA PEMBELAJARAN INTERAKTIF PENGENALAN ILMU TAJWID BERBASIS AUGMENTED REALITY
Authors: Jalaludin Assuyuthi Muhammad , Ekawati Nia
Published: December 2024

Penguasaan tajwid merupakan aspek penting dalam membaca Al-Qur'an dengan benar, namun seringkali metode pembelajaran konvensional dianggap kurang menarik bagi siswa. Untuk mengatasi tantangan tersebut, penelitian ini mengembangkan media pembelajaran interaktif berbasis Augmented Reality (AR) yang dirancang untuk mengenalkan ilmu tajweed dengan cara yang lebih menarik dan mudah dipahami. Teknologi augmented reality (AR) memungkinkan integrasi elemen digital ke dunia nyata, menciptakan pengalaman belajar yang imersif dan interaktif. Aplikasi ini memberikan visualisasi tiga dimensi dari huruf-huruf hijaiyah dan kaidah-kaidah tajwid, serta contoh penerapannya dalam pembacaan Al-Qur'an. Evaluasi penggunaan media ini menunjukkan adanya peningkatan minat dan pemahaman siswa terhadap materi tajweed, serta memberikan pengalaman belajar yang lebih mendalam dan menarik. Dengan demikian, media pembelajaran interaktif berbasis AR ini berpotensi menjadi alat yang efektif dalam proses pengenalan dan penguasaan ilmu tajweed, yang diharapkan dapat meningkatkan kualitas pembelajaran di bidang keagamaan.
MEDIA BELAJAR PERMAINAN INTERAKTIF BERBASIS POWERPOINT UNTUK SISWA SEKOLAH DASAR
Authors: Fauzi Imam , Ekawati Nia
Published: December 2024

Dengan kemajuan teknologi, institusi pendidikan, terutama universitas, telah mulai menerapkan penggunaan PowerPoint. Namun, PowerPoint belum banyak diadopsi di sekolah dasar. Penting untuk memahami manfaatnya dan menganalisis penggunaan oleh berbagai institusi yang telah mengintegrasikannya. Analisis ini berfokus pada manfaat dengan pendekatan yang menangani masalah dan tantangan PowerPoint sebagai media pembelajaran. Penelitian ini memberikan gambaran tentang penerapan PowerPoint di institusi pendidikan dan menawarkan rekomendasi untuk pemanfaatan yang efektif.
A practical guide to diagnosing bovine mastitis: a review
Authors: Ramuada Mpho , Tyasi Thobela Louis , Gumede Lungile , Chitura Teedzai
Published: December 2024

Mastitis is one of the major diseases affecting the viability of dairy farming due to direct and indirect losses associated with low milk yield and poor milk quality. This review aims to provide comprehensive literature on methods that are commonly employed for field and laboratory diagnosis of bovine mastitis. The search process was conducted with the use of the Google Scholar electronic database. The keywords were “bovine mastitis” and “diagnosis. Findings indicate the use of various tests for early detection of mastitis under field conditions and in the laboratory. Conventional methods include somatic cell count, microbiological milk culture, and the California mastitis test. Microbiome techniques and chromogenic plates were mentioned as methods that can yield better results as compared to simple bacterial culture methods. Polymerase chain reaction and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight were mostly reported as reference tests for the diagnosis of bovine mastitis. The use of biosensors, machine learning and 16srRNA was reported to offer prospects for the diagnosis of bovine mastitis. Overall, results have shown that diagnostic techniques for mastitis play a crucial role in early pathogen detection, facilitating prompt treatment and reducing mastitis transmission. It can be concluded that bovine mastitis is prevalent in dairy cattle and places a significant economic burden on dairy farms worldwide. Therefore, accurate disease diagnosis is a critical step towards developing targeted intervention measures for udder health management.
Advancing microfluidic point-of-care platelet function tests: opportunities and challenges from bench to market
Authors: Kang Minki , Bresette Christopher A. , Ku David N.
Published: December 2024

Platelets are critical for blood clotting, with shear-induced platelet aggregation (SIPA) playing a key role in hemostasis and the prevention of excessive bleeding. SIPA function potentially leads to life-threatening diseases such as hemorrhage and myocardial infarction, which are leading causes of death globally. Point-of-care platelet function tests (POC PFTs) are developed to assess platelet dysfunction and distinguish between normal and abnormal platelet activity. Recent advances in microfluidic technology have been integrated into POC PFTs, showing promise for delivering more accurate, rapid, and differentiated results using minimal blood sample volumes, enabling more informed treatment decisions. However, current POC PFTs fall short of replicating high-shear thrombotic conditions in vitro, resulting in limited clinical SIPA diagnosis and actionable insights. In this review, we explore the current landscape of POC PFT technology, key challenges, and future opportunities. We highlight the importance of device design and scalable manufacturing to fully realize the potential of microfluidic POC PFTs and facilitate their widespread adoption in clinical practice, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Cardiac function in pregnant women with preeclampsia
Authors: Yerlikaya-Schatten Gülen , Karner Eva , Heinzl Florian , Prausmüller Suriya , Kastl Stefan , Springer Stephanie , Zilberszac Robert
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Preeclampsia (PE) is thought to be the consequence of impaired placental perfusion leading to placental hypoxia. While it has been demonstrated that PE may be a consequence of maternal cardiovascular maladaptation, the exact role of maternal cardiac function remains to be determined. This study sought to assess cardiac characteristics in pregnant women diagnosed with PE and to determine the possible relationship between PE, maternal cardiac changes/function, and NT-proBNP levels.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of 65 pregnant women diagnosed with PE who had an echocardiographic examination during pregnancy. Where available, NT-proBNP levels were analyzed. All patients underwent a comprehensive echocardiographic examination based on a standardized examination protocol.

Results

Left ventricular size was within the normal range, and there was normal radial left ventricular function. Longitudinal contractility was impaired with a global longitudinal strain of −17.8% (quartiles −20.2 to −15.4). The cardiac index was in the normal range with a median of 3.2 ml/min/m2 (quartiles 2.6–4.0). The left atrium was of borderline size in longitudinal diameter [50 (44.8–54.3) mm], but within the normal range in volumetric index [27.3 (22.9–37.3) ml/m2]. Furthermore, mild left ventricular hypertrophy [septal thickness 12 (10–13) mm] and at least borderline elevated filling pressures with an E/e' ratio of 10.6 (8.5–12.9) were found. Maximal tricuspid regurgitation velocity [2.9 (2.5–3.3) m/s] and derived systolic pulmonary pressure [38 (29.5–44.5) mmHg] were borderline elevated. Regarding NT-proBNP levels, an increase in NT-proBNP levels correlated with a decrease in gestational age at delivery (p < 0.0002) and maternal cardiac changes. Obstetric characteristics showed a preterm rate of 71.43%, mostly due to maternal aggravation of PE or because of fetal signs of deprivation based on placental insufficiency. Neonatal deaths occurred in five cases (7.69%).

Conclusion

Changes in cardiac function in the context of hypertensive pregnancy diseases can be observed with regard to various echocardiographic parameters. Furthermore, there is a significant association between NT-proBNP levels and a decrease in gestational age at delivery in women with PE, which thus might be useful as a prognostic factor for the management of women with preeclampsia and changes in maternal cardiac function during pregnancy.
Anti-inflammatory effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in coronary artery disease: a comprehensive review
Authors: Skrobucha Alicja , Pindlowski Patryk , Krajewska Natalia , Grabowski Marcin , Jonik Szymon
Published: December 2024

Coronary artery disease (CAD)—cardiovascular condition occuring due to atherosclerotic plaque accumulation in the epicardial arteries—is responsible for disabilities of millions of people worldwide and remains the most common single cause of death. Inflammation is the primary pathological mechanism underlying CAD, since is involved in atherosclerotic plaque formation. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a peptide hormone which role extends beyond well-known carbohydrates metabolism. In in vitro studies GLP-1 receptor agonism is associated with regulation of several inflammatory pathways, including cytokine production, lypotoxicity and macrophages differentiation. In this review, we aimed to provide a comprehensive summary of the potential relationship between anti-inflammatory effects of GLP-1 and CAD. We have described a well-established association of anti-inflammatory properties of GLP-1 and atherosclerosis in animals. Pre-clinical studies showed that anti-atherogenic effect of GLP-1 is independent of modulation of plasma lipid levels and depends on anti-inflammatory response. Human studies in this area are limited by small sample size and often nonrandomized character. However, beneficial impact of GLP-1 on endothelial function and microcirculatory integrity in patients with CAD have been described. Understanding atherosclerosis as a chronic inflammatory disease offers new opportunities for the prevention and treatment of CAD. Therefore, we emphasize the need for larger randomized controlled trials focusing on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality to verify the cardioprotective properties of GLP-1R agonists in patients with CAD.
Addressing Known hypertensive disOrders of pregnancy in woMen of African descent in Canada (AKOMA): protocol for a mixed method study
Authors: Baiden Deborah , Nerenberg Kara , Hillan Edith M. , Dogba Maman Joyce , Parry Monica
Published: December 2024

Background

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) predispose a woman to maternity-related cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, there is limited literature on HDP among women of African descent in Canada.

Methods and design

A convergent mixed-method study will be used to investigate the intersection of self-reported HDP risks in women of African descent in Canada with a history of a HDP (quantitative, cross-sectional survey) and explore the perception and experiences of women of African descent living in Canada with a history of a HDP in relation to the intersection of risk factors (critical qualitative inquiry, interviews). Quantitative analysis will use SPSS V. 27.0 and thematic analysis will be conducted using NVivo V. 12. A joint display will be used to combine the quantitative and qualitative results.

Discussion

Through the lens of intersectionality, the proposed study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the intersection of risks for HDP among women of African descent in Canada with a history of HDP. Furthermore, results could inform future strategies to reduce cardiovascular disease risks.

Trial Registration Number

This is registered in the Open Sciences Framework as follows: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/R6CKY.
Case Report: Avoiding misdiagnosis in amyloidosis—navigating transthyretin genopositivity and monoclonal gammopathy in a patient with advanced heart failure and spinal stenosis
Authors: Wu Xia , Toskic Denis , Zhou Ping , Scalia Stephanie , Ma Xun , Bhatt Parva , Fogaren Teresa , Pilichowska Monika , Arkun Knarik , Patel Jainith , Riesenburger Ron I. , Larson Daniel P. , Comenzo Raymond L.
Published: December 2024

Background

A 63-year-old Black woman presented with progressive exertional dyspnea and chronic lower back pain. The course and findings in her case are instructive.

Case report

Family history was notable for cardiac deaths. An echocardiogram demonstrated ventricular wall thickening with diastolic dysfunction. The patient’s N-terminal pro b-type natriuretic peptide level was 1,691 pg/ml with a troponin I level of 0.36 ng/ml. Transthyretin (TTR) sequencing detected a heterozygous V122I variant. The patient’s free κ light chain level in serum was 664 mg/L with a ratio of 16.5. Bone marrow analysis showed 20%–30% κ-restricted plasma cells with amyloid deposits. A technetium-99m sodium pyrophosphate scan was performed and was negative. Magnetic resonance imaging of the total spine showed ligamentum flavum (LF) thickening at L4–5, causing severe spinal stenosis. In both the abdominal fat and the LF, liquid chromatography-coupled tandem mass spectrometry confirmed κ-type immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis; the quantitative estimate of amyloid content in the LF was 5%. She was diagnosed with AL amyloidosis with Mayo Stage IIIA cardiac and soft tissue involvement, enrolled in the Aquarius trial (NCT05250973) in Cohort 2, and received daratumumab, cyclophosphamide, bortezomib, and dexamethasone. She achieved a partial hematological response with a cardiac response and is now pain-free and fully functional.

Conclusion

In patients with amyloidosis who have both monoclonal gammopathy and a TTR variant, it is imperative to discern the tissue type of the amyloid to deduce the correct diagnosis. ATTR and AL amyloidosis can both cause spinal stenosis with minimal degenerative changes. The LF tissue must be stained for amyloids and, if present, typing must be performed.
Cardiac events and dynamic echocardiographic and electrocardiogram changes following osimertinib treatment in lung cancer
Authors: Le Jonathan N. , Gasho Jordan O. , Peony Olivia , Singh Asneh , Silos Katrina D. , Kim Sungjin , Nguyen Anthony T. , Kamrava Mitchell , Mirhadi Amin , Hakimian Behrooz , Reckamp Karen L. , Sankar Kamya , Mak Raymond H. , Nikolova Andriana P. , Atkins Katelyn M.
Published: December 2024

Osimertinib is first-line treatment for epidermal growth factor (EGFR)-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and has been associated with cardiotoxicity. However, the nature of cardiac remodeling and associated risk factors remains incompletely understood. Retrospective analysis of NSCLC patients with ≥1 echocardiogram post-osimertinib between 2007 and 2022 was performed. The cumulative incidence of grade ≥2 cardiac common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE) was estimated and Fine and Gray regressions performed (non-cardiac death as competing risk). Eighty-five patients [mean [interquartile range, IQR], 68 [60–75] years; 67% female; 12% with pre-existing heart conditions] met inclusion criteria. With a median follow up of 34.7 months, the 2-year cumulative incidence of grade ≥2 and grade ≥3 cardiac events were 19.2% and 8.5%, respectively. There was an increased risk of grade ≥2 cardiac CTCAE with pre-existing arrhythmia [hazard ratio(HR) 3.90, 95%CI, 1.11–13.72; p = 0.034] and higher body mass index (HR 1.07, 95%CI, 1.00–1.14; p = 0.04). Following osimertinib (vs. baseline), the median QTc was prolonged (451 vs. 437 ms; p < 0.001) and LVEF ≤50% was more common (10.6% vs. 5.3%; p = .046). Osimertinib treatment was associated with QTc prolongation and reduced LVEF. BMI was identified as a potentially modifiable risk factor for osimertinib-associated cardiotoxicity, worthy of further study.
Evolution of the internal structure and physical properties of Tongxin sandstone under high temperature
Authors: Jiang Guanghui , Wang Jintao , Wen Jinhao , Liu Xingzong , Yu Bangyong , Wang Yihan
Published: December 2024

The stability of the surrounding rock under high temperature is pivotal to the efficient and safe production of high-temperature fluidized mining engineering. To investigate the stability of rocks under high temperature, this paper takes the roof sandstone of Tongxin coal mine, examining changes in its physical parameters such as mass, dimensions, wave velocity, porosity, and permeability after treatment at various temperatures (20–700°C). The results showed that parameters like mass and wave velocity decreased with increasing temperature, while dimensions, porosity, fracture density, and permeability increased. The patterns of change in these physical properties with temperature exhibit a high degree of consistency. Additionally, composition analysis and thermal analysis were conducted to understand the physical and chemical changes occurred in sandstone. Scanning electron microscopy was used to observe microstructural changes in the sandstone. After analysis, the evolution of the internal structure of Tongxin sandstone with heat treatment is categorized into three stages. (1) stable change Stage (20–450°C, 650–700°C): Dominated by dehydration and thermal stress, where pore and fracture structures develop slowly; (2) rapid change stage (450–550°C, 600–650°C): Dominated by the kaolinite dehydroxylation, leading to increased porosity but decreased average pore size; (3) intense change stage (550–600°C): Dominated by the quartz phase transitions, where the thermal stress generated by quartz phase transitions causes dramatic alterations in the internal structure of the sandstone. Furthermore, a correlation model between wave velocity and permeability of sandstone at high temperatures was established based on the interrelationship of these physical properties, providing a new method for real-time monitoring of permeability under high-temperature conditions.
Trends of academic achievement of higher education students in Ethiopia: literature review
Authors: Kassaw Chalachew , Demareva Valeriia , Herut Adane Hailu
Published: December 2024

This literature review explores trends in academic performance among higher education students in Ethiopia from 2005 to 2022. Its goal is to identify the factors that affect academic success and suggest ways to enhance it. By conducting a thorough search on Google Scholar, relevant studies were selected based on specific criteria, particularly focusing on metrics like GPA. The findings highlight notable differences in student performance, often related to socioeconomic status and the resources available at various institutions. While some universities have seen improvements in GPA, challenges such as overcrowded classrooms and limited support services remain significant obstacles. To address these issues, the review suggests implementing initiatives that promote equity, improving the quality of teaching, and expanding comprehensive support services for students. It stresses the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to create an inclusive educational environment. Such a holistic strategy is crucial for improving the quality of higher education in Ethiopia and ensuring that all students have equal access to opportunities.
Association between physical activity and sedentary behavior and gestational diabetes mellitus: a Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Gao Jie , Liu Jingfang
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The evidence of association between physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior (SB) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) remains controversial in observational studies, this study aimed to generate new hypotheses between PA, SB and GDM.

Methods

Our study performed Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the effects of three types of PA (moderate physical activity (MPA), moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), accelerometer-based physical activity (ABPA)), three types of SB (television watching (TV), leisure computer use (PC), driving (DR)) on GDM and the mediating effect of body mass index (BMI). The inverse variance weighted method was used for the major analysis.

Results

In univariate MR analysis, we found that genetically predicted TV and PC among SB were associated with GDM (OR = 1.61, 95%CI 1.21-2.14, P = 0.001; OR = 0.71, 95%CI 0.51-0.98, P = 0.037), whereas DR and MP were not (OR = 1.68, 95%CI 0.21-13.3, P = 0.623; OR = 1.20, 95%CI 0.87-1.65, P = 0.271). However, no association was found between physical activity and GDM: MPA (OR = 0.40, 95%CI 0.08-2.06, P = 0.273), MVPA (OR = 0.96, 95%CI 0.58-1.57, P = 0.861), and ABPA (OR = 0.99, 95%CI 0.90-1.09, P = 0.838). Multivariate MR analysis found DM (OR = 1.64, 95%CI 1.13-2.36, P = 0.008) and that BMI was a mediating factor with a 62% mediating effect.

Conclusions

This study proposes a new hypothesis for the association between TV and GDM, which is mediated by BMI, providing evidence for reducing the risk of GDM during pregnancy by reducing television watching time.
Effect of freezing and thawing on ejaculated sperm and subsequent pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in IVF
Authors: Xie Qin , Jiang Xueyi , Zhao Ming , Xie Yating , Fan Yong , Suo Lun , Kuang Yanping
Published: December 2024

Background

Techniques for sperm cryopreservation have exhibited their potential in male fertility preservation. The use of frozen–thawed sperm in in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles is widespread today. However, many studies reported that cryopreservation might have adverse effects on sperm DNA integrity, motility, and fertilization, probably due to cold shock, intra- and extracellular ice crystals, and excess reactive oxygen species (ROS). Studies suggested that freezing and thawing impaired sperm viability and might adversely affect subsequent fertilization and pregnancy outcomes. The potential damage to fertilization and subsequent embryonic development and offspring health raises the concern on sperm cryopreservation. However, the above mentioned studies are limited to intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles, while IVF is a more natural and patient-friendly method. IVF requires a higher quality of sperm than ICSI. However, the effect of freezing and thawing on sperm used for IVF remains unknown. Therefore, we aim to investigate the effect of freezing and thawing on ejaculated sperm and subsequent pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in IVF.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study at a tertiary-care academic medical center included 447 women who used paternal frozen–thawed ejaculated sperm and 31,039 women who used paternal freshly ejaculated sperm for IVF and underwent frozen–thawed blastocyst transfer from January 2011 to September 2021. To balance the baseline characteristics of the two groups, patients using frozen sperm were matched with control groups using a propensity score matching algorithm with a ratio of 1:3.

Results

Although sperm motility decreased from 82.04% to 75.70% (P < 0.001) after the freezing–thawing process, the fertilization rate (68.27% for frozen sperm and 67.54% for fresh sperm), number of viable embryos (1.98 and 2.16), clinical pregnancy rate (44.7% and 51.8%), and live birth rate (40.3% and 42.4%) were comparable between the two groups (all P > 0.05). For neonatal outcomes, no between-group differences were observed in offspring gender, gestational age, birthweight, and the rate of preterm birth (21.7% and 12.9%), low birthweight neonates (19.2% and 16.0%), and birth defects (0.0% and 0.8%) (all P>0.05).

Conclusions

Frozen–thawed sperm had lower sperm motility but resulted in comparable embryonic, pregnancy, and neonatal outcomes versus fresh sperm in IVF cycles.