bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting of factors associated with valsartan response among hypertensive patients attending the Jordan University Hospital
Authors: Khalil Shahd , Quran Aseel , Thalji Leen , Al-Adamat Malk , Sabha Lina , Khraisat Joud , Al Na’ami Abdel rahman , Al-Jazzazi Hatem , Alhawari Hussein , Jarrar Yazun
Published: February 2025

Objectives

There is an inter-individual in the valsartan response among hypertensive patients. However, clinical factors associated with this variation in the response is still not fully understood. The major purpose of this study is to predict the factors associated with valsartan response and their influence on decreasing blood pressure among patients.

Methods

This study is a cross-sectional observational study. It included 91 hypertensive patients on valsartan treatment, selected through simple random sampling from the Jordan University Hospital. The clinical data was collected through documented medical records in the hospital’s computerized system. The data was analyzed using the chi-square test to compare frequencies and categories.

Results

Patients were divided into systolic and diastolic responders. No statistical significance was found between systolic response to valsartan’s and gender, smoking, age, BMI, lipid profile and HbA1c status. Diastolic responders had a positive significance of p value = 0.006 with BMI categories, however there was no significance with any other factor.

Conclusions

There was a better diastolic response to valsartan among hypertensive patients with lower BMI levels. BMI can be considered as a factor to personalize the therapy among patients on valsartan. However, further clinical studies with larger sample size are needed to confirm these data.
Technical aspects and clinical applications of synthetic MRI: a scoping review
Authors: Pires Tancia , Pendem Saikiran , M.M. Jaseemudheen , Priyanka
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Synthetic magnetic resonance imaging (SyMRI) is a non-invasive, robust MRI technique that generates multiple contrast-weighted images by acquiring a single MRI sequence within a few minutes, along with quantitative maps, automatic brain segmentation, and volumetry. Since its inception, it has undergone technical advancements and has also been tested for feasibility in various organs and pathological conditions. This scoping review comprehensively pinpoints the critical technical aspects and maps the wide range of clinical applications/benefits of SyMRI.

Content

A comprehensive search was conducted across five databases, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and CINAHL Ultimate, using appropriate keywords related to SyMRI. A total of 99 studies were included after a 2-step screening process. Data related to the technical factors and clinical application was charted.

SyMRI provides quantitative maps and segmentation techniques comparable to conventional MRI and has demonstrated feasibility and applications across neuroimaging, musculoskeletal, abdominal and breast pathologies spanning the entire human lifespan, from prenatal development to advanced age. Certain drawbacks related to image quality have been encountered that can be overcome with technical advances, especially AI-based algorithms.

Outlook

SyMRI has immense potential for being incorporated into routine imaging for various pathologies due to its added advantage of providing quantitative measurements for more robust diagnostic and prognostic work-up with faster acquisitions and greater post-processing options.
Micro-mechanism analysis of Zhongchuan loess liquefaction disaster induced by Jishishan M6.2 earthquake in 2023
Authors: Wang Yi , Wang Qian , Zhang Wuyu , Zhong Xiumei , Liu Fuqiang , Jia Shichao , Hu Xuefeng
Published: February 2025

On December 18, 2023, the M
S 6.2 Jishishan earthquake triggered a large-scale liquefaction disaster of loess sites in Jintian and Caotan villages, Zhongchuan town, Minhe County, Haidong City, Qinghai Province. To clarify the micro-mechanism of the liquefaction disaster, the Q3 Malan loess layer of the disaster site and its overlying red silty clay layer samples were selected and quantitatively analyzed for the differences in physical properties, structure, microstructural parameters, and mineral compositions. Based on the discrepancy results, the micro-mechanisms between loess microstructure and macro-mechanical properties of soil and liquefaction disaster were investigated. The research shows that compared with red silty clay, the dynamic index of loess corresponding to the physical indices of Zhongchuan loess obviously exceeds the critical threshold of liquefaction under actual seismic intensity. Additionally, its pore structure is dominated by point contact and weakly cemented overhead macropore structure, and its quantitative pore microstructure parameters and mineral composition show significant liquefaction potential. The comprehensive analysis of the liquefaction mechanism shows that the rapid deformation of the soil skeleton and the destruction of the cementation and contact system of the water-sensitive minerals under seismic loading and hydraulic force lead to the collapse of the overhead macropores, the damage of structural strength, the increase of the complex pore channels, the rapid accumulation of pore water pressure, and the reduction of the effective stress, which leads to the liquefaction of the loess.
Chebyshev polynomials of the first kind and the univariate Lommel function: Integral representations
Authors: da Fonseca Carlos M. , Glasser M. Lawrence , Kowalenko Victor
Published: February 2025

This study investigates a number of integrals possessing products of different indices of the univariate Lommel function,

s

μ
,
ν

(

a

)

{s}_{\mu ,\nu }\left(a)

, with various elementary and special functions. As a consequence, connections between the function and Chebyshev polynomials of the first kind are established.
Digital, nachhaltig, drittmittelstark: Die Ausschreibungen von VWL-Professuren in Deutschland
Authors: Stock Kathrin , Tillmann Peter , Walter Andreas
Published: February 2025

Kathrin Stock, Peter Tillmann und Andreas Walter untersuchen den Markt für volkswirtschaftliche Professorinnen und Professoren an Universitäten in Deutschland zwischen 2014 und 2022. Dabei stützen sich die Autoren auf die Texte der Ausschreibungen von 429 Professuren in diesem Zeitraum. Die Texte zeigen, dass der Anteil an Tenure-Track-Professuren infolge des Bund-Länder-Programms deutlich gestiegen ist, dass Interdisziplinarität in jedem zweiten Ausschreibungstext Erwähnung findet und dass Drittmittel sogar in bis zu 85 Prozent der Ausschreibungen thematisiert werden. Die großen gesellschaftlichen Themen spiegeln sich in den Ausschreibungen wider: Die Bezüge zu den Themen Digitalisierung, Nachhaltigkeit und Migration nehmen im Zeitablauf zu.
Die übersehene Verletzbarkeit? Erfahrungen geflüchteter Männer zwischen Verletzung, Solidarität und Gewalt
Authors: Schneider Matthias
Published: February 2025

In gesellschaftlichen Diskursen und im Flüchtlingsschutz werden geflüchtete Männer selten als verletzbar wahrgenommn. Empirische Studien verwenden diesen Begriff zwar, oft jedoch nur vage. Dadurch bleibt das Verhältnis zwischen Männern, Flucht und Verletzbarkeit unterbestimmt. Ziel dieses Artikels ist es, dieses Verhältnis zu ergründen, indem es theoretisch unterfüttert und anhand der Biographien von aus Eritrea geflüchteten Männern näher beleuchtet wird. Die Analyse von zwei Biographien zeigt dabei vier unterschiedliche situationale Verletzbarkeiten auf, in denen die Männer verletzt werden. Gleichzeitig wird deutlich, wie aus diesen Erfahrungen sowohl Solidarität als auch Gewalt erwachsen kann. Diese Ergebnisse tragen dazu bei, bisherige gesellschaftliche Diskurse über die Unverletzbarkeit geflüchteter Männer zu verkomplizieren und die Betrachtung von Verletzbarkeiten weiterzuentwickeln.
Stability analysis of semi-analytical technique for time-fractional Cauchy reaction-diffusion equations
Authors: Ullah Saif , Ali Rahat
Published: February 2025

In this article, classical Cauchy reaction-diffusion equations are converted into the corresponding time-fractional Cauchy reaction-diffusion equations using Caputo–Fabrizio fractional order derivative. The obtained equations are then solved using a semi-analytical method, which is the combination of Laplace transform and Picard’s iterative scheme. The derived solutions are innovative, and such derivations are not found in the previous literature. In addition, the Banach fixed-point principle and G-stable mapping are used to analyze stability of the implemented semi-analytical method. Error estimation and comparison of derived results with exact solutions already available in the literature through graphical illustrations and tables reveal that the implemented semi-analytical method is more efficient and fruitful for solution of time-fractional Cauchy reaction-diffusion equations.
HEMANGIOSSARCOMA HEPÁTICO COM METÁSTASES EM OMENTO EM UM CANINO JOVEM - RELATO DE CASO
Authors: Campos Matté Ana Caroline , Nora Fernanda , Brandão Minhos Tamires , Conceição Oliveira Eduardo , Affeldt Guterres Karina
Published: February 2025

Hemangiossarcoma (HSA) é um tumor maligno de células mesenquimais, com origem no endotélio vascular ou de células progenitoras endoteliais vasculares da medula óssea, representa aproximadamente 5% de todas as neoplasias não cutâneas, primárias e malignas de cães. A casuística de HSA é maior em animais idosos, entre 8 e 13 anos, em cães jovens sua ocorrência é considerada rara. O presente relato tem como objetivo relatar o caso clínico de um cão de apenas um ano e quatro meses de idade acometido por hemangiossarcoma hepático com metástases em omento, confirmado em exame histopatológico. O canino chegou à clínica apresentando histórico de êmese e durante o exame clínico demonstrou algia abdominal. Em ultrassonografia abdominal havia nódulos hepáticos e presença de líquido livre que indicava sangramento ativo. O animal foi encaminhado para procedimento cirúrgico para exérese dos nódulos hepáticos e controle da hemorragia. Devido à piora do quadro clínico e pelo prognóstico desfavorável do caso, optou-se pela eutanásia. É importante considerar o HSA como diagnóstico diferencial em animais jovens, principalmente em raças predispostas e de grande porte para diagnóstico precoce e sobrevida do paciente.
KARADUT (Morus nigra) VE HİBİSKUS (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) EKSTRAKTLARI KULLANILARAK BİYOAKTİF BİLEŞENLERCE ZENGİN ve KARMİNE ALTERNATİF OLARAK RENKLENDİRİLMİŞ FONKSİYONEL ET ÇUBUĞU ÜRETİMİ
Authors: Yiğit Cem , Aykın Dinçer Elif
Published: February 2025

Atıştırmalık et çubukları, genel olarak tuz ve çeşitli baharatları içeren et hamurunun doğal kuzu bağırsaklarına doldurulduktan sonra pişirilmesiyle elde edilen bir et ürünüdür. Bu çalışmada, et çubukları üretiminde karmine alternatif olarak karadut ve hibiskus ekstraktlarının renklendirici olarak kullanımının, çubukların renk stabilitesi, lipit oksidasyonu ve duyusal özellikleri üzerine etkisi araştırılmıştır. Karadut ekstraktı içeren et çubuklarının pH ve su aktivitesi (aw) değerleri, karmin ve hibiskus ekstraktı içeren çubuklardan daha düşük (P<0.05) tespit edilmiştir. Toplam fenolik miktarı, en yüksek hibiskus ekstraktı içeren çubuklarda (1118.36 mg/kg GAE) tespit edilirken, örneklerin antioksidan aktiviteleri arasında istatistiksel olarak önemli bir farklılık bulunmamıştır. Karmin kullanılan çubukların daha düşük L* ve b* değerleri (P<0.05; P<0.01) ve daha yüksek a* değeri (P<0.01) ile daha koyu kırmızı renkli olduğu belirlenmiştir. Duyusal değerlendirmede ise, en yüksek lezzet ve genel beğeni puanına hibiskus içeren çubuklar sahip olmuştur. Bu çalışmada, atıştırmalık et çubuklarının hem renklendirilmesi hem de zenginleştirilmesinde hibiskus ekstraktının başarıyla kullanılabileceği sonucuna varılmıştır.
Does Inclusive Language Increase the Visibility of Women, or Does It Simply Decrease the Visibility of Men? A Missing Piece of the Inclusive Language Jigsaw
Authors: Sato Sayaka , Gygax Pascal Mark , Gabriel Ute , Oakhill Jane , Escasain Lucie
Published: February 2025

The use of a single bipolar gender scale to evaluate the estimated gender breakdown of an occupational group has long been the standard measure for assessing the effects of linguistic-grammatical information and gender stereotypes on the mental representations of gender. However, this scale presupposes a reciprocal relationship between the gender poles, assuming that the estimated number of one gender group constrains the estimation of the other. This is questionable, as distinct linguistic modulations and gender stereotypes may exert asymmetrical influences on each gender group’s representation. The current study, therefore, used gender-separated scales and showed that an inclusive language manipulation on the presentation of occupations can increase the visibility of women when the occupations do not carry feminine stereotype information but can also decrease the visibility of men when the occupations do not carry masculine stereotype information. Using this scale may be a more appropriate approach for future studies to capture the influence of language forms on gender representation in a more nuanced way.
Sleep Deprivation and Negotiation
Authors: Halfmann Emma , Hüffmeier Joachim , Faber Nadira S. , Häusser Jan A.
Published: February 2025

In a series of five studies, we examined the effects of sleep deprivation on negotiation outcomes. In three experiments (total N = 398), sleep-deprived dyads versus dyads with regular sleep participated in (Studies 1 and 2) or observed (Study 3) an integrative negotiation. In all three studies, we found no evidence that sleep deprivation reduces the quality of agreements in terms of joint economic outcomes. A Bayesian meta-analysis across studies supported this finding. These findings contradict our theoretical prediction and also laypersons’ expectations (Study 4). However, we found first evidence for compensatory effort in sleep-deprived individuals that could account for the absence of the expected effect. We conducted qualitative interviews with 22 German elected politicians (including heads of state and federal ministers; Study 5). Their responses shed light on the nature of compensatory strategies to cope with sleep deprivation in real-life negotiations.
Colectivizar los cuidados y los retos del cuidado informal
Authors: Carlos Fregoso Gisela
Published: February 2025

Este artículo aborda las complejidades del cuidado en una pareja lésbica ante una situación de salud mental, para evidenciar cómo, además de las implicaciones de género que conllevan las prácticas de cuidado, tambien están atravesadas por otras opresiones como la lesbofobia y el capacitismo. Para ello, en un primer momento contextualizo el sistema de cuidados. Posteriormente, hablo sobre la relación intrínseca entre las prácticas de cuidados no valorados y cómo estos han sido relegados a las mujeres, y a qué nos enfrentamos si las mujeres ya no desean -o no pueden- realizar esta labor. En un tercer hablo sobre la ruta teórica metodológica También parto de conceptos como “cuidado informal”, el concepto de Estado heterosexual para revisar cómo repercute la lesbofobia en el tejido de redes de apoyo para personas cuidadoras informales. Como quinto momento y que forma parte de los resultados, explico mediante la autoetnografía, el tejido de redes, las estrategias llevadas a cabo como cuidadora informal, así como los aprendizajes adquiridos como cuidadora informal.
2025 Recommendations for Preventive Pediatric Health Care: Policy Statement
Authors:   Committee on Practice and Ambulatory Medicine
Published: February 2025

The 2025 Recommendations for Preventive Pediatric Health Care (Periodicity Schedule) has been approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Each child and family is unique; therefore, these recommendations are designed for the care of children who are receiving nurturing parenting, have no manifestations of any important health problems, and are growing and developing in a satisfactory fashion. Developmental, psychosocial, and chronic disease issues for children and adolescents may require more frequent counseling and treatment visits separate from preventive care visits. Additional visits also may become necessary if circumstances suggest concerns. The AAP continues to emphasize the great importance of continuity of care in comprehensive health supervision and the need to avoid fragmentation of care.1
Estrategias de evaluación del inglés en plataforma virtual: consideraciones del uso de inteligencia artificial en el rendimiento académico del estudiantado
Authors: Alfaro Salas Hazel Viviana
Published: February 2025

The aim of this research was to examine how assessment strategies can enhance English learning on virtual platforms while mitigating the potential negative effects of students' reliance on AI tools for answering questions. A quantitative, descriptive-correlational, and experimental methodology was employed, wherein assessment strategies were adjusted to evaluate their impact on students' performance. The sample comprised 33 university students (23 women and 10 men) enrolled in an intermediate English course. Written and oral comprehension assessment strategies were applied, alongside a questionnaire addressing the use of ChatGPT as a learning aid. Data analysis was conducted using mean contrast tests (Student’s t-test) and Pearson’s correlation. Results indicated higher scores on the written exam based on reading comprehension and selection tasks, which decreased when selection tasks were replaced by word-dragging activities within images. Additionally, written exam scores were higher than oral exam scores, suggesting that students may leverage AI tools to complete written assessments. The observed differences between average scores across assessment strategies highlight the need for educators to consider students’ use of AI tools such as ChatGPT in the evaluation process. Significant differences were identified between written and oral exam results, as well as between the two assessment strategies, with a notable correlation between ChatGPT use and performance on selection-based written exams. These findings underscore the risk of misinterpreting students’ actual progress in English learning and emphasize the importance of promoting a more pedagogically sound use of AI tools to serve as knowledge mediators rather than merely instruments to pass courses.
Vocación a la docencia, estrés percibido y el efecto mediador de la inteligencia emocional
Authors: Torres Hernández Edgar Fabián
Published: February 2025

El estrés docente en México es un problema significativo que afecta el rendimiento y la calidad educativa. Por ello, el presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo principal analizar el efecto mediador de la inteligencia emocional entre la vocación docente y el estrés percibido en docentes mexicanos. A través de una investigación cuantitativa, no experimental, participaron 636 personas docentes de distintos niveles educativos. Se aplicaron los siguientes instrumentos autoadministrados: la Escala de Estrés Percibido (PSS-14), la Escala Wong and Law de inteligencia emocional, y el Cuestionario de Vocación Docente (CVOC-D). Se empleó el software estadístico JASP 0.16.2 para realizar análisis descriptivos, correlacionales y de mediación. Se encontraron correlaciones negativas significativas entre el estrés percibido y los componentes de la inteligencia emocional y la vocación docente. El análisis de mediación reveló que la vocación docente influye directa e indirectamente en la reducción del estrés percibido, principalmente a través de la autoeficacia emocional, la valoración de las emociones propias y la regulación emocional. La vocación docente y la inteligencia emocional actúan como mecanismos protectores del estrés, lo que puede permitir manejar efectivamente las demandas emocionales de la docencia. Como líneas futuras de investigación, se recomienda emplear investigaciones cualitativas, que tengan como propósito profundizar en el contexto en donde se desenvuelve el profesorado para comprender los factores que inciden en la percepción y afrontamiento de situaciones estresantes.
Aprendizaje-servicio en finanzas personales: una experiencia práctica
Authors: Figueroa Moreno Carlos Alberto , Zerega Tallia Paola Giuliana , Karmach Sánchez Elías Jordan , Delgado Fuentealba Carlos Leandro
Published: February 2025

El objetivo de este artículo es el análisis exhaustivo de los resultados y experiencias de una actividad de aprendizaje-servicio (A+S) desde tres perspectivas: estudiantes, docente y público usuario. La iniciativa consiste en la realización de talleres de finanzas personales dirigidos a la comunidad, por las personas estudiantes de la Escuela de Administración y Negocios de la Universidad de Concepción, Campus Chillán, Chile, en el curso electivo de Finanzas Personales, el primero en el país para el estudiantado de pregrado en el marco de un convenio de cooperación con la Comisión para el Mercado Financiero. Se utilizó la metodología de estudio de caso e información cualitativa obtenida de los reportes de capacitación entregados por cada grupo de estudiantes en un horizonte temporal de seis años (2017 - 2022). Los resultados indican que la metodología A+S fue altamente valorada por el estudiantado participante, ya que les permitió desarrollar competencias conductuales fuera del aula, junto con cultivar su sentido de responsabilidad social. El docente de la asignatura, quien se iniciaba en su carrera académica, enfatizó que la actividad le permitió desarrollar sus habilidades pedagógicas, junto con obtener datos relevantes para desarrollar investigación. El público usuario mostró satisfacción por el servicio recibido, destacando el carácter lúdico de los talleres y cómo el estudiantado respondió a las inquietudes del público. Esta investigación puede servir de insumo para implementar iniciativas A+S que fomenten la educación financiera en otros países, principalmente Latinoamericanos. En este sentido, se recomienda no generar una réplica exacta de la iniciativa, sino adaptar los elementos necesarios a la realidad de cada país y objetivos de cada universidad, reforzando los aspectos positivos indicados en el caso, y solucionando las debilidades y limitaciones presentadas.
Project Study: Jeff Danzer Bridge over the Little Scioto River Scioto County, Ohio
Authors:   PCI Journal Staff
Published: February 2025

In this unique design-build project, spliced, precast concrete bulb-tee girders using semi-lightweight concrete and two-stage post-tensioning were designed to cross the Little Scioto River with a 200-ft-long (610 m) single-span structure. The precast concrete producer was Prestress Services Industries LLC; Lexington, Ky.
Hazardous gambling behavior is associated with amplified emotional reactivity to gambling outcomes
Authors: Cholewick Antonia , Bennett Daniel
Published: February 2025

Background and aims

Emotion dysregulation has been suggested to play a role in gambling-related harm, but past gambling research has typically assessed emotion dysregulation via self-report surveys rather than in a gambling context. Here, we sought to investigate how the severity of participants' hazardous gambling behavior was associated with their emotional reactivity and choice behavior within a simulated slot-machine task.

Methods

Participants (N = 100) recruited via Prolific completed a behavioral task involving repeated choices between two simulated slot-machines. When chosen, slot-machines could produce one of five outcome types (win/near-win/neutral/near-loss/loss). After each outcome, participants reported their subjective emotional valence. Emotion data were analysed using a beta-autoregressive computational model, allowing us to extract per-participant estimates of trial-by-trial emotional reactivity to different slot-machine outcomes.

Results

Correlation analyses revealed that people who engaged in more hazardous gambling behavior (higher PGSI scores) showed greater emotional reactivity to all slot-machine outcome types (all Spearman ρ > |0.31|, all p < 0.01, corrected for multiple comparisons). There were no significant associations between patterns of choice behavior and PGSI scores.

Discussion and conclusions

Within a simulated slot-machine task, individuals who engaged in more hazardous gambling behavior showed greater emotional reactivity in general (more positive emotional reactions to wins and more negative emotional reactions to unpleasant events such as losses and near-wins). These results are consistent with a model in which emotion dysregulation is a risk factor for gambling-related harm, and serve to validate this model in a more naturalistic setting.
The neverending trip: Associations between Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) and non-visual perceptual disturbances
Authors: McConnell Anneliese , He Wei , McConnell Harry , Sperandei Sandro , Sowman Paul F
Published: February 2025

Objective

Hallucinogen Persistent Perception Disorder (HPPD) is a condition where the effects of hallucinogenic drugs reoccur long after the acute effects have stopped. No established risk factors or mechanisms for HPPD have been identified. However, reports have suggested a risk phenotype for HPPD due to associations with other perceptual disturbances. With recent increases in therapeutic psychedelic drug use, it is essential to consider the existence of HPPD risk factors. Therefore, exploring potential links between HPPD and other perceptual disturbances, such as tinnitus and migraine with aura, is a necessary first step. This study aimed to investigate the association between HPPD and other perceptual disorders.

Methods

One hundred thirty-eight individuals with HPPD and 116 controls participated in a survey assessing the prevalence of various perceptual disturbances: photosensitivity, phonosensitivity, tinnitus, migraine with aura, vertigo, paraesthesia, and synaesthesia.

Results

The survey results showed a significant association between HPPD and photosensitivity (OR = 10.65), phonosensitivity (OR = 8.00), and the number of perceptual disturbances (OR = 1.59) in the HPPD group compared to the control group. The study also observed trends of dual prevalence between HPPD and tinnitus, migraine with aura, vertigo, paraesthesia, and synaesthesia. Participants with both HPPD and other perceptual disturbances were likelier to experience additional perceptual disturbances after the onset of HPPD.

Conclusions

These findings suggest a common vulnerability or pathophysiological mechanism among these perceptual disturbances. Given the increasing therapeutic use of hallucinogens, the results of this study provide essential considerations for HPPD risk profiles. Moreover, they may guide future investigations into HPPD's pathophysiology and management options.
The feature of the relationship between vitamin d and anemia in pregnant women
Authors:   Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine, Poladych I.V. , Kostenko O.Yu. ,   Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: February 2025

Anemia, characterized by low levels of hemoglobin or red blood cells, is a significant global health issue, particularly among pregnant women, due to its severe negative consequences. Recent studies highlight a potential association between anemia and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels; however, the mechanisms underlying this relationship remain poorly understood.
Aim - to establish a causal relationship between 25(OH)D levels and the risk of anemia in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Materials and methods. From January to September 2024, a study was conducted to analyze serum 25(OH)D levels in 135 pregnant women in their first trimester. The study was performed at the Women's Consultation Department of the "Kyiv Perinatal Center" municipal non-commercial enterprise. Based on serum 25(OH)D concentrations, the participants were divided into three groups: the Group I - 77 pregnant women with vitamin D deficiency and anemia; the Group II - 27 pregnant women with vitamin D insufficiency and anemia; the Control group - 30 pregnant women with optimal vitamin D levels and no anemia. A retrospective analysis included data on age, seasonality, anthropometric parameters, somatic and gynecological conditions, reproductive history, and the course and outcomes of both previous and current pregnancies.
Results. The study identified seasonal patterns of vitamin D deficiency and anemia, with the highest risk occurring from mid-winter to spring. The Group I demonstrated significantly increased risks of obstetric complications such as placental abruption, preterm birth, preeclampsia, severe postpartum hemorrhage, and fetal growth restriction. Additionally, thyroid disorders, liver-related digestive issues, and urinary system diseases were more frequently observed in this group.
Conclusions. This study confirms a causal relationship between higher 25(OH)D levels and reduced anemia incidence. The findings emphasize the importance of vitamin D in preventing anemia among pregnant women and highlight the need for further research into the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation as a strategy for reducing anemia risk.
The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of the participating institution. The informed consent of the patient was obtained for conducting the studies.
No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.
Advancements in AI-Driven Communication Systems: Enhancing Efficiency and Security in Next-Generation Networks
Authors:   Solution Architect, TCS-USA, Palakurti Naga Ramesh
Published: February 2025

The increasing complexity and demands of next-generation networks necessitate the integration of
Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance their efficiency and security. This article explores advancements in AI-driven
communication systems, focusing on optimizing network performance, ensuring robust security measures, and
addressing the challenges of scalability and real-time adaptability. By analyzing case studies, emerging technologies, and
recent research, this study highlights AI's transformative potential in redefining communication systems for future
applications.
Rehabilitation interventions in long COVID: a case report
Authors: Assunção Patrícia Franco , Takahasi Eliana Harumi Morioka , Amorim Joyce Arcoverde Modesto , Reis Rafael de Lima
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT. The repercussions of Long COVID demand specialised rehabilitation care. Interdisciplinary interventions in a 58-year-old patient were implemented to improve the clinical, motor and cognitive complaints associated with COVID-19. The rehabilitation team performed quantitative and qualitative evaluations in the initial phase and after 12 months of follow-up. The patient’s neuropathic pain, ankle and foot muscle strength, gait pattern, general cognitive functioning, initiative, emotional expressiveness, processing speed, neuropsychiatric symptoms and quality of life improved. She demonstrated gains in metacognition and expanded the use of compensatory strategies, resuming her routine and professional activities, although still with signs of executive dysfunction. It is concluded that a rehabilitation program calibrated to the profile of the patient with Long COVID had positive effects on functionality and satisfaction with quality of life.
The production of school failure in the speeches of educational reforms
Authors: Alves Rosana Maria de Souza
Published: February 2025

Abstract The article problematizes the assumptions of school renewal based on the diagnoses that characterize the so-called poor quality of public schools. Among the investments made, the hypothesis is discussed that reform projects trigger logics that produce school failure. The approach provides evidence that the assertion of failure, linked to inadequate student learning, was conditioned by the school's current configurations and the provision of sophisticated statistical instruments. It concludes by claiming that the creation of learning expectations linked to age and school grade establishes a normality of performances that direct investments in a specific type of education and subject to be formed.
A School Museum as an Archaeological Locus: history of the Mauá School Museum
Authors: Rosa Angelita da , Possamai Zita Rosane
Published: February 2025

Abstract This research addresses the history of the Mauá School Museum (Santa Cruz do Sul, RS), here considered as a school museum in its early decades and a locus of archaeological research since its reopening in the 1960s. It emphasizes the role of its agents who acted as collectors of archaeological remains in the region and among its inhabitants. The investigation is guided by historiographical operation within the fields of educational history and museum history and uses photographic images and written records to construct the proposed narrative. The theoretical and methodological foundation is based on historiographical operation related to the evidential paradigm, with the multidisciplinary contribution made possible by Cultural History studies and their connection to the History of Education and Museology.
Orientação Acadêmica como Trabalho Pedagógico no Ensino Superior
Authors: Rodrigues Jéssica do Nascimento
Published: February 2025

Resumo Ensaio sobre os processos dialógico-dialéticos de orientação acadêmica como práxis educativa intencional e como objeto científico potencial, sendo os gêneros discursivos acadêmicos axiais na formação de professores-pesquisadores-profissionais. Entretanto, no cenário nacional, a legislação e as políticas não apresentam diretrizes nem formação específica para esse trabalho, além de os discursos de naturalização e individualização dos processos de leitura-escrita no ensino superior reforçarem ideologias mantenedoras do capitalismo acadêmico, contexto no qual professores universitários assumem múltiplas funções em intensas cargas de trabalho. Sublinho a necessidade de um projeto de educação linguística comprometido com a formação omnilateral.
Academic Supervision as Pedagogical Work in Higher Education
Authors: Rodrigues Jéssica do Nascimento
Published: February 2025

Abstract This essay concerns the dialogical-dialectic processes of academic supervision as an intentional educational praxis and as a potential scientific object, considering it is one of the foundational academic discourses in the teacher-researcher-professional training. However, the national legislation and politics don’t feature guidelines or specific training for this type of work. Also the naturalisation and individualization discourse of the reading-writing processes in Higher Education reinforce the ideologies that maintain the academic capitalism, a context in which university professors undertake several roles in intensive work loads. I emphasize the need for a linguistic education project that is committed to training on all sides.
Development and characterization of aminated polystyrene adsorbent with nanoparticles
Authors: Bharathy Archana , Ramachandran Sowndarya , Rajiv Sheeja
Published: February 2025

Polymeric nanofibers are used as efficient filter media in solving environmental impact issues because of their excellent properties such as high surface-to-volume ratio, light weight, high porosity, and flexibility at nanoscale dimensions. This study focuses on the electrospinning of aminated polystyrene (APS) incorporated with cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2 NPs) and its characterization. Polystyrene was aminated and electrospun by optimizing various spinning parameters. Interestingly, 20% (w/v) concentration gave smooth, beadless uniform nanofibers. The surface morphology of the nanofibers and nanoparticles was examined using scanning electron microscope. Successful amination of polystyrene was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and by the contact angle measurements. Significant changes in the hydrophobicity of APS nanofibers (69°) and CeO2 NPs incorporated APS nanofibers (78°) were observed. The X-ray diffraction pattern of CeO2 NPs showed characteristic peaks very close to the fluorite-structured CeO2 crystal. The thermal stability of the nanofibers and nanoparticles was studied using thermogravimetric analysis; it was around 330°C–380°C for CeO2 NPs incorporated in APS nanofibers. The prepared nanostructured material showed better thermal stability, with reduced hydrophobicity, which makes these nanofibers a potential chemical adsorption material for indoor air pollutants.
Regulating Bank Portfolio Choice Under Asymmetric Information
Authors: Anderson Christopher
Published: February 2025

Regulating bank risk-taking is challenging since banks know more than regulators about the risks of their portfolios and can make adjustments to game regulations. To address this problem, I build a tractable model that incorporates this information asymmetry. The model is flexible enough to encompass many regulatory tools, although I focus on taxes. These taxes could also be interpreted as reflecting the shadow costs of other regulations, such as capital requirements. I show that linear risk-sensitive taxes should not generally be set more conservatively to address asymmetric information. I further show the efficacy of three regulatory tools: (1) not disclosing taxes to banks until after portfolio selection, (2) nonlinear taxes that respond to information contained in banks' portfolio choice, and (3) taxes on banks' realized profits that incentivize banks to reduce risk.
Towards a framework of reparatory measures for the enslavement and colonisation of the African people
Authors: Mavedzenge Justice Alfred
Published: February 2025

In February 2023 the African Union adopted a resolution by which it resolved to pursue reparatory justice to redress the harm that was caused against Africans through Trans-Atlantic slavery and colonialism. The adoption of the resolution has been followed by a debate on how it can best be implemented, especially considering that the quest for reparations for slavery and colonialism has been ongoing for almost a century. If the AU is to succeed in this quest, it needs to develop a strategy that addresses two critical questions, namely, (i) what would constitute reparatory justice in contemporary terms, for these historical crimes; and (ii) how the AU should pursue its claim for reparatory justice. This article discusses these two questions and suggests that the AU uses the United Nations Basic Principles and Guidelines on the Right to a Remedy and Reparation for Victims of Gross Violations of International Human Rights Law and Serious Violations of International Humanitarian Law as both a legal and conceptual basis for identifying measures that would constitute reparatory justice for Africans, in order to redress the harm caused through slavery and colonialism. This article identifies and discusses these measures, which include compensation for damages suffered by the African people and the African natural environment; the reform of international financing institutions; and the reform of the United Nations. In view of the constrains and biases that exist within the international legal system, the article suggests that the AU should pursue the reparatory justice agenda primarily through political engagements and the forging of global alliances, while using opportunities presented by the international justice system.
Implications of James Dak's 2016 deportation to South Sudan by the Kenyatta government in violation of international refugee law
Authors: Deng Mark AW
Published: February 2025

This article discusses James Gatdet Dak's 2016 deportation from Kenya to South Sudan where he was imprisoned for two years for several offences he allegedly had committed in relation to the civil war in that country. It provides an understanding of the circumstances that led to deportation and violation of Dak's right to refugee protection. The article makes three principal arguments. First, the Kenyatta government carried out the deportation in violation of international and regional refugee laws. Particularly, the Kenyatta government violated the principle of non-refoulement, which is now considered to have become a peremptory norm of international law from which no derogation is permitted. Second, Dak had suffered persecution at the hands of South Sudan's authorities because of his political opinion. Third, the injustice Dak had suffered entitles him to a remedy from the Kenyan government, which he could potentially pursue through the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights' complaint process. Although a considerable period has elapsed, the African Commission's flexible approach to the relevant admissibility criterion should be able to accommodate his complaint.
A contextual approach to strengthening state capacity to implement the decisions of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights
Authors: Mbanje Tendai , Okoloise Chairman
Published: February 2025

The African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights plays a pivotal role in promoting and protecting human and peoples' rights across the continent. Despite widespread ratification ofthe African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights and related treaties, state parties continue to face significant challenges in implementing the African Commission's recommendations, largely due to governance and democracy deficits. These challenges are exacerbated by resource constraints, limited state capacity, poor inter-agency coordination and a lack of effective monitoring mechanisms. To address these issues, this article argues for a contextual approach to strengthening state capacity for implementing the African Commission's decisions. Proposed strategies include fostering constructive engagement with states, building political will, and empowering national human rights institutions and civil society organisations to provide targeted support. Adopting an exploratory approach to the discourse, the article finds that only by deploying a tailored and context-specific approach can the African Commission work collaboratively with states to improve compliance with the African Charter, so as to foster a stronger human rights culture in Africa and enhance the legitimacy of the African Union's human rights framework.
Understanding the right to education under the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, within the four pillars of interpretation
Authors: Quan Gertrude M
Published: February 2025

The African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child has received several communications alleging violations of the right to education under the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. This has led to significant development on the jurisprudence on education and on education-related rights. Like every right under the African Children's Charter, the right to education is subject to the four pillars of interpretation: non-discrimination; best interests; child participation; and survival and development. The aim of this article is to explore how the African Children's Committee has interpreted the right to education within the four pillars of interpretation and how that has shaped the growing jurisprudence on education under the African Children's Charter. The article also draws on examples on educational rights and interpretive provisions from the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights.
Forced displacement, governance by law, and transnationalism in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Bamidele Seun , Adefisoye Taiwo Oladeji
Published: February 2025

Forced displacement is one of the most topical issues in contemporary development and humanitarian studies. Although the displacement of people across national borders and regional boundaries is not new, recent waves of forced displacement in sub-Saharan Africa have swelled numbers in displacement camps and exacerbated the abysmal conditions in these camps, attracting media and scholarly attention.
This article contributes to the literature on forced displacement by examining the topic in terms of governance and transnationalism in sub-Saharan Africa. Sub-Saharan Africa is the focus of the article due to the record numbers of forced displacements in this region; specifically, cases are drawn from Nigeria. Moreover, displacement in sub-Saharan Africa involves governments and various non-state actors in multiple countries. Data for this article were sourced from the media as well as reports by various organisations, in particular in regard to the African Union Convention for the Protection and Assistance of Internally Displaced Persons in Africa. The article concludes by pointing out the need for a more human-centric approach and for African governments to fulfil their obligations to their people in order to prevent an escalation of the problem.
The impact of the flaws of transitional justice mechanisms in Burundi on Aspiration 4 of the African Union's Agenda 2063
Authors: Ndimurwimo Leah Alexis
Published: February 2025

This article examines transitional justice mechanisms have been used to reconcile warring parties in Burundi. It draws on the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (or Commission vérité et reconciliation, commonly known as the CVR) to demonstrate the deficiencies of transitional justice in addressing Burundi's dark history. Among the key findings of the CVR report of 2021 is the revelation that the mass killings of 1972 amount to the international crime of genocide, a characterisation which is still contentious in Burundi. This article explores the strained relations between Burundi and international donors. As the year 2024 marks the passage of 52 years since the 1972 mass killings, it is surprising that many Burundians are still waiting for justice to be served. The article critically examines the application of transitional justice mechanisms through the flaws of truth-telling, reconciliation, and reconstruction in post-conflict Burundi.
The difference between a relocation and an eviction in the context of ESTA: A critical reflection on Boplaas Landgoed (Pty) Ltd v Jonkies (LCC 37/2022) [2022] ZALCC 38 (15 August 2022)
Authors: Ngwenyama Lerato Rudolph
Published: February 2025

In recent years, disputes around the relocation of occupiers under the Extension of Security of Tenure Act 62 of 1997 [ESTA] have increased significantly. This contribution analyses the case of Boplaas Landgoed (Pty) Ltd v Jonkies [LCC 37/2022] [2022] ZALCC 38 [15 August 2022] (Jonkies), in which an owner sought the relocation of ESTA occupiers from their ESTA homes to state-sponsored ones allocated to them by the state and which they owned. The aim of this case note is to critically reflect on the case of Jonkies. The argument is made that there is a distinction between "relocation" and "eviction", and that not only owners should be able to request relocation. It is also argued that while relocations as evictions are not permitted under ESTA, ESTA occupiers who have been offered alternative housing by the state may be evicted. A balance is, however, required in the context of ESTA so as to challenge the historical hierarchy which persists between owners and ESTA occupiers, in order to transform property relations, ensure fairness, and prevent further prejudice to ESTA occupiers.