bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kebijakan Artificial Intelligence (AI) dalam Pembelajaran di Perguruan Tinggi
Authors: Anggi Fatmadiwi  , Suryani  , Hartoyo Agung , Erlina Erlina
Published: February 2025

The rapid development of information and communication technology has made artificial intelligence (AI) a crucial issue in education and learning. Higher education institutions face challenges in adopting AI into the learning process to enhance the quality of technology-based education. This study aims to analyze policies and regulations, implementation, and evaluation of AI utilization in higher education learning. The method used is a literature study with data collection techniques based on primary and secondary sources relevant to artificial intelligence. Data analysis was conducted using a descriptive analysis method. The results of the study indicate that the implementation of generative AI in learning presents both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, generative AI technology can assist the academic community in accessing information and improving learning efficiency. However, improper use may negatively impact academic integrity. Therefore, appropriate policies and regulations are necessary for higher education institutions to address challenges and optimize AI integration in the learning process.
Household Plastic Waste Management Strategies for Socio-economic and Environmental Sustainability in Eldoret City, Kenya
Authors: Kariuki Moses Kamau , Juma Otieno Ezekiel , Wekesa Diana Christabel Natecho , Paul Loktary Ywapamoy , Githinji Robert , Engairo Pamela , Lucy Lucy , Gilbert Bor , Jemaiyo Beatrice
Published: February 2025

Household plastic waste management has emerged as a critical challenge in rapidly urbanizing areas across the globe, including Eldoret City, Kenya. The proliferation of single-use plastics and inadequate waste disposal systems exacerbate environmental degradation and strain local economies. This study explores sustainable strategies for managing household plastic waste to promote socio-economic and environmental sustainability in Eldoret City. Using a desktop research approach, the study examines Eldoret waste management practices, circular economy, stakeholder involvement, and strategies for socio-economic and environmental sustainability. Key findings indicate that the absence of an efficient waste segregation and recycling system, coupled with limited public awareness, contributes to the escalating plastic waste crisis in the city. Innovative strategies such as community-based waste collection, the establishment of plastic recycling centers, and the promotion of circular economy principles are highlighted as viable solutions. Additionally, public-private partnerships, policy reforms, and incentivized waste management programs are essential to enhance participation and accountability among stakeholders. The study emphasizes the socio-economic benefits of effective plastic waste management, including job creation, reduced environmental health risks, and enhanced urban livability. Recommendations include fostering public awareness campaigns, investing in recycling infrastructure, and integrating informal waste collectors into formal systems.
Perceived Benefits of TVET by Youth-Trainees in Selected Veta Institutions in Arusha Region, Tanzania
Authors: Mokoro Daniel Kosia
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the youth trainees’ perceived benefits of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in VETA institutions in Arusha City, Tanzania. The study was guided by three research questions: 1) What are the benefits of TVET to trainees? 2) What are the challenges facing TVET in the studied institutions? and 3) What should be the remedies? The study employed a cross-sectional survey research design. The sample had 130 trainees, 15 trainers, and three programme coordinators, making 148 total participants. Data collection integrated questionnaires, interviews, and document analysis guides. The researcher analysed the data statistically and thematically. Results also show that the youth-trainees perceive the TVET courses were very beneficial to them, especially through the acquisition of employability skills. However, TVET is facing challenges such as inadequate training facilities and materials, inadequate trainers, and insufficient infrastructure. The study concludes that the TVET opportunity was well received by the trainees, because it is beneficial to them. This study recommends four ways of addressing the challenges facing TVET in the studied institutions.
Reducing CO2 emissions by improving road design: a driving simulator study
Authors: Bosurgi Gaetano , Marra Stellario , Pellegrino Orazio , Sollazzo Giuseppe
Published: February 2025

In the last decade, the causes of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions were widely studied, to delete or, at least, mitigate them. In the road context, as reasonable, greater importance was assigned to the vehicles, since huge traffic flows, including high percentages of trucks, determine negative impacts on the environment. On the contrary, the role of the road infrastructure has always been considered marginal. It was thought as a functional element on which the traffic flows move, without evaluating the role of its geometrical characteristics on exhaust gas emissions. The proposed research aims to verify whether some road features, related to its horizontal geometry, influence the carbon dioxide production of vehicles or, on the contrary, if it is not sensitive to the different geometrical compositions. A driving simulator gives the opportunity to calculate the emissions from fuel consumption data, in turn, calculated through the engine mapping of an ordinary vehicle. The proposed procedure may be easily applied to any road context and may represent a further checking element for the infrastructure efficiency, in terms of environmental impacts. The results, derived from a test phase in a simulated environment and obtained using 3 different one-way ANOVAs, allowed the authors to define some interesting conclusions. The trend of the carbon dioxide function depends on curve radius and lengths and on tangent length; therefore, an opportune alignment design can effectively contribute to control emission values. The experiments confirmed that designing a consistent road is fundamental, but this cannot be deduced by traditional literature models.
CDN-Net: Faint Celestial Target Detection Based on Densely Nested Hierarchical Network
Authors: Chen Guo , Xue Bindang , Li Xinyang , Cao Junzhe , Yin Jihao
Published: February 2025

The detection of celestial objects in ground-based wide-field optical telescope images serves as the foundational step for subsequent celestial analysis tasks. Existing methods for astronomical target detection have not addressed the challenges posed by a high dynamic range, faintness of targets, and an inaccurate supervision map. This paper presents a faint celestial target detection framework named the Celestial Densely Nested Network (CDN-Net). First, a hierarchical bit-depth decomposition strategy is designed to address high dynamic range astronomical FITS images, ensuring effective representation of faint targets. Second, a densely nested hierarchical network is introduced to extract high-resolution features of these faint astronomical targets. Lastly, a soft segmentation map, along with the corresponding loss, is proposed to guide the network’s focus toward faint targets. Experiments were conducted on both simulated and real data sets, separately comprising 2560 images and 24,087 images, respectively, to evaluate the performance of CDN-Net. Compared to six existing methods, CDN-Net achieves superior precision, recall, and F1 score, especially for faint targets with signal-to-noise ratios below 3. Additionally, comparisons with star catalogs validate the effectiveness of CDN-Net. The code for this work is available at https://github.com/AeroFirefly/CDN-Net.
Relative Alpha in the Magnetohydrodynamics with Open Magnetic Field Boundary and Its Application to the Solar Eruption
Authors: Yang Shangbin , Büchner Jörg , Santos Jean Carlo , Skála Jan , Zhang Hongqi
Published: February 2025

An instability criterion in the magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) with the open boundary of a magnetic field is proposed in this paper. We use a series of linear force-free extrapolation fields, in which the normal part of the magnetic field is fixed, to obtain the linear fitting coefficient called relative alpha by using the cojoined value of magnetic free energy and magnetic flux at the open boundary (E

f
Φ2) and the square of relative magnetic helicity (

H

R

2

). We calculate this coefficient of the magnetic field above active regions NOAA 8210 and NOAA 11429 obtained by the photospheric-data-driven MHD model. It is found that the fitting coefficient is a good proxy of the criterion to indicate the occurrence of instability after which the magnetic reconnection happens and causes the fast release of magnetic energy. We also applied this method to the continuous evolution of the three-dimensional magnetic field of NOAA 11158 based on the measurement of the photospheric vector magnetic field of Solar Dynamics Observatory/Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager by the nonlinear force-free extrapolation method. The calculated coefficient when the major flare happened based on the extrapolation data is very close to the expected ones, which perfectly reflects the occurrence of instability, and the difference is even less than 7%. This relative alpha is very helpful to evaluate how far it is from the instability in the MHD and quantitatively estimate the occurrence of solar eruption in the space weather forecast.
A Novel Survey for Young Substellar Objects with the W-band Filter. VII. Water-bearing Objects in the Core of the ρ Ophiuchi Cloud Complex
Authors: Sharma Tanvi , Chen Wen Ping , Biller Beth , Albert Loïc , Damian Belinda , Jose Jessy , Lalchand Bhavana , Liu Michael C. , Oasa Yumiko
Published: February 2025

We present a study of very low mass stars and brown dwarfs in the rich star-forming core of the ρ Ophiuchi cloud complex. The selection of the sample relies on detecting the inherent water absorption characteristic in young substellar objects. Of the 22 water-bearing candidates selected, 15 have a spectral type of M6 or later. Brown dwarf candidates too faint for membership determination by Gaia have their proper motions derived by deep-infrared images spanning 6 yr. Astrometric analysis confirms 21/22 sources as members, with one identified as a contaminant. Infrared colors and the spectral energy distribution of each water-bearing candidate are used to diagnose the mass, age, and possible existence of circumstellar dust. A total of 15 sources exhibit evidence of disks in their spectral energy distributions, as late as in M8-type objects. Spectroscopy for bright candidates has confirmed one as an M8 member and verified two sources (with disks) exhibiting signatures of magnetospheric accretion.
Energy Extraction from a Black Hole by a Strongly Magnetized Thin Accretion Disk
Authors: Dhang Prasun , Dexter Jason , Begelman Mitchell C.
Published: February 2025

The presence of a strong, large-scale magnetic field in an accretion flow leads to the extraction of the rotational energy of the black hole (BH) through the Blandford–Znajek (BZ) process, believed to power relativistic jets in various astrophysical sources. We study rotational energy extraction from a BH surrounded by a highly magnetized thin disk by performing a set of 3D global GRMHD simulations. We find that the saturated flux threading the BH has a weaker dependence on BH spin, compared to highly magnetized hot (geometrically thick) accretion flows. Also, we find that only a fraction (10%–70%) of the extracted BZ power is channeled into the jet, depending on the spin parameter. The remaining energy is potentially used to launch winds or contribute to the radiative output of the disk or corona. Our simulations reveal that the presence of a strong magnetic field enhances the radiative efficiency of the disk, making it more luminous than its weakly magnetized counterpart or the standard disk model. We attribute this excess luminosity primarily to the enhanced magnetic dissipation in the intra-ISCO region. Our findings have implications for understanding X-ray corona formation and BH spin measurements, and interpreting BH transient phenomena.
Magnetic Activities of AD Leonis: Flares in TESS Data and Optical Spectra
Authors: Ram Diya , Mondal Soumen , Patra Dusmanta , Ghosh Samrat , Khumbhakar Rajib
Published: February 2025

We studied the flaring activities of M4.5 dwarf AD Leo to understand its stellar atmospheres and magnetic activities. We present new observational results on this highly active star, using nonsimultaneous measurement of Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) data, time-series optical spectra, and Giant Meter Radio Telescope 325 MHz radio data. We revisited the rotation period of 2.23 ± 0.04 days from TESS, which matches well with previously measured literature values. We estimated an extremely rare high-energy superflare of 4.9 × 1035 erg and ∼400 minute duration with a high magnetic field strength of 1.2 kG. Interestingly, we correlated the duration of a flare event with its energy, τ ∝ 

E
bol

0.60
±
0.02

, and noticed a discrepancy between stellar and solar flares suggesting a difference in coronal magnetic field strength. From time-series spectra, we observed Hα spectral flares in the range of 1030–1031 erg. A 12 minute delay in a spectral flare event was observed between the emission of the Hα and Ca ii H and K lines, possibly due to their origination at different spatial locations in the chromosphere. We noticed the deviation in flare rate distribution and orbital phases indicates the presence of highly active regions. Furthermore, an occasional radio detection with a flux density of 9.46 ± 1.63 mJy at a frequency of 325 MHz might be coherent emission in the presence of the magnetic field, giving a hint of star–planet interaction.
Radioecological modelling of 131I activity dynamics in milk in the central part of Mazovia: reconstruction, verification, reliability assessments
Authors: Vlasov Oleg Konstantinovich , Zvonova Irina Aleksandrovna , Shchukina Nataliia Vladilenovna
Published: February 2025

The work was aimed to the study the 137Cs and 131I transport dynamics along the trophic chain, from the atmosphere to soil, vegetation, dairy cattle, milk, and the human body. This was done with the use of the radioecological simulation model based on instrumental data from the “Warsaw” scenario of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) EMRAS project, which were collected after the Chernobyl nuclear accident. The created simulated radioecological model was used for reconstruction of the 131I radioactivity in dairy cattle milk in the Warsaw and Ostroleka areas located in the central part of Mazovia, where the cattle dairy milk radiometry was performed in April-May 1986. The aim of the study was to verify the radioecological model, to assess the reliability and uncertainty of the milk block of the computed model. It was found that the successive account of discrepancies between computed and reconstructed instrumental data of 131I radioactivity dynamics in green fodder on farms in Mazovia areas and the shortage of clean fodder stocks harvest lead to a successive improvement of the agreement between computed and instrumental data of 131I activity in the dairy milk. For all variants of accounting correction the ratio of computed data to instrumental data with recalculated 131I activities in the atmosphere of the Ostroleka Area is on average 2.5–3 times closer to their ideal value of 1 than in calculations with instrumental data for a cloud. The prognostic properties of the computational model at the stage of reconstruction of the specific 131I activity in milk, estimated as the ratio of computed data to instrumental data, can be estimated as 1.05±2.0; the values of these ratios for correction of thyroid radiation doses to the population due to the contaminated milk consumption are estimated as 1.3±2.5.
Sérologie automatisée de la toxoplasmose
Authors: Imbert Sebastien , Paris L.
Published: February 2025

La toxoplasmose est une parasitose habituellement bénigne chez le sujet immunocompétent. En revanche, chez un patient immunodéprimé, son agent causal Toxoplasma gondii peut être à l’origine d’infections opportunistes sévères, localisées avant tout au système nerveux central. Il peut également causer des complications neurologiques graves chez le fœtus d’une femme enceinte n’ayant pas été en contact avec ce protozoaire avant sa grossesse. La sérologie reste essentielle dans la détection précoce de la toxoplasmose au cours de la grossesse afin de mettre en œuvre une stratégie diagnostique vis-à-vis d’une éventuelle infection congénitale qui pourrait nécessiter une prise en charge thérapeutique spécifique. Le présent article fait le point sur les techniques automatisées aptes à réaliser les tests sérologiques de la toxoplasmose.
L’approche diagnostique syndromique en microbiologie
Authors: Mizrahi Arié , Le Monnier Alban , Pilmis Benoit
Published: February 2025

Les récentes évolutions technologiques, combinant la PCR multiplexe et des plateformes compactes, modulaires et de gestion rapide des analyses, ont permis d’envisager des approches diagnostiques simplifiées et coordonnées en microbiologie ou approches syndromiques. Il est parfois difficile de s’y retrouver devant la grande diversité de panels proposés, variant dans la nature des agents infectieux détectés, leur adaptabilité sur les différents équipements existants ainsi que dans leurs performances analytiques. Autant de critères de choix qu’il convient de prendre en compte en fonction des besoins et des organisations déjà en place dans les laboratoires. Ces tests ont montré leur intérêt médical pour une prise en charge des patients adaptée et « coût-efficace », mais ils présentent certaines limites qu’il convient de connaître. La généralisation de cette approche diagnostique syndromique pose de nouvelles questions tant sur son financement que sur le positionnement de ces tests actuellement très onéreux par rapport aux techniques de microbiologie conventionnelle.
Dépistage de l’infection par le VIH en France en 2016
Authors: Le Strat Yann , Cazein Françoise , Sarr Abdoulaye , Ramus C. , Bouché Nicolas , Jacqueme B. , Lot F.
Published: February 2025

Cet article présente un bilan, actualisé pour 2016, de l’activité de dépistage du VIH en France dans les laboratoires d’analyses médicales (recueil LaboVIH), des tests rapides d’orientation diagnostique (TROD) et des autotests. En 2016, 5,4 millions [IC95 % : 5,34-5,52] de sérologies VIH ont été réalisées, un nombre en augmentation depuis 2014 (+ 3 %, p = 0,001). Parmi elles, environ 300 000 (6 %) ont été effectuées dans un cadre anonyme et gratuit. Le nombre de sérologies VIH confirmées positives était de 10 667 [9 926-11 407], un nombre stable depuis 2007. La proportion de sérologies positives était plus élevée parmi les sérologies anonymes (3,6 pour 1 000 tests) que parmi les non anonymes (1,9 pour 1 000). Environ 56 300 TROD du VIH ont été réalisés en 2016 par 52 structures associatives ou de prévention retenues dans le dispositif national de dépistage communautaire mis en place depuis cinq ans en France, dont 491 étaient positifs, soit 8,7 pour 1 000 tests. En 2016, 74 651 autotests VIH ont été vendus en pharmacie. L’activité de dépistage du VIH en France a légèrement augmenté au cours des deux dernières années, sans accroissement du nombre de sérologies positives. Les dispositifs de dépistage existants sont complémentaires pour concourir à l’objectif de réduction du nombre de personnes infectées non encore diagnostiquées.
Actualisation des modalités de réalisation des examens d’immuno-hématologie érythrocytaire
Authors: Bliem Cathy , Pirenne France , Chiaroni Jacques
Published: February 2025

Les modalités de réalisation des examens d’immuno-hématologie ont été actualisées à la suite de la parution de l’arrêté du 15 mai 2018. Elles concernent particulièrement les phénotypages érythrocytaires et la recherche des agglutinines irrégulières qui permettent d’assurer la sécurité transfusionnelle et de la grossesse. Les règles de réalisation et l’organisation structurelle de la transfusion sanguine et du suivi de la grossesse sont reprécisées dans un souci de continuum entre l’établissement de soins, le site de délivrance et le laboratoire d’immuno-hématologie.
Exploration d’une anomalie lipidique
Authors: Bonnefont-Rousselot Dominique
Published: February 2025

L’exploration biologique des lipides met en évidence des anomalies du métabolisme des lipides appelées « dyslipoprotéinémies ». Elle est constituée d’une première étape, consistant en l’exploration d’une anomalie lipidique, au sens défini par la Nomenclature des Actes de Biologie Médicale, qui permet le dépistage et la prise en charge de la plupart des patients concernés, aussi bien sur le plan hygiéno-diététique que, le cas échéant, thérapeutique. Cette revue présente le contexte et les conditions préanalytiques de cette exploration phénotypique usuelle, quelques éléments complémentaires (calcul du cholestérol non-HDL, dosages des apolipoprotéines A-I, B et de la Lp(a), lipoprotéinogramme) ainsi que les bases de l’interprétation des bilans lipidiques, à la lumière des recommandations européennes. L’exploration de cas complexes, dédiée à des centres spécialisés et nécessitant une confrontation de l’analyse phénotypique avec l’analyse moléculaire, ne sera pas abordée dans cette revue.
Avvakum et Ferapont : traces d’Avvakum dans les Frères Karamazov
Authors: Pliukhanova Maria
Published: February 2025

Dans les Frères Karamazov, le personnage de Ferapont s’oppose au starets Zosima, par un certain nombre de traits caractéristiques, ainsi que par le style de ses discours. Le type d’ascèse adopté et prêché par Ferapont, sa distance par rapport à l’Église, sa dénonciation du clergé pour sa compromission avec la chair et son éloignement de la foi, permettent qui plus est de rapprocher ce personnage des traditions du raskol. Plus précisément, c’est à l’œuvre du plus fameux des représentants du raskol, l’archiprêtre Avvakum, que renvoient les images et la rhétorique des discours de Ferapont.
Книга Пьера Паскаля «Протопоп Аввакум и начало раскола»: история русского перевода и издания
Authors: Jukhimenko Elena
Published: February 2025

L’article revient sur la préparation de l’édition russe du célèbre livre de Pierre Pascal, Avvakum et les débuts du raskol. À l’origine, se trouve une traduction effectuée, de la fin des années 1940 au milieu des années 1950, par un petit-fils de l’écrivain Lev Tolstoj, Sergej Sergeevič Tolstoj, sur la demande de l’épiscopat vieux-croyant de Moscou. Comme cette traduction n’était pas destinée à être publiée, il fallut effectuer un travail de rédaction important pour l’éditer en 2010 (précisions bibliographiques, vérifications des citations et des titres des œuvres russes anciennes). Les deux éditions moscovites (2010 et 2016) témoignent de l’importance jamais démentie de ce travail fondamental du savant français.
Keep the Ball Flying
Authors: Menezes-Fagundes Felipe , Salas-Santandreu Cristòfol , Hileno Raúl , Salas-Urbiola Dídac
Published: February 2025

The Sustainable Development Goals established by the United Nations aim to address global challenges, including promoting quality education. In sports, creating inclusive learning environments is crucial for developing key life skills and values. This study examines the effects of court size and player numbers on the continuity principle in volleyball. Seventy-six university students participated in four game scenarios: 1 vs. 1 on 3 x 3 m and 4.5 x 3 m courts, 2 vs. 2 on 3 x 6 m, and 4.5 x 6 m courts. Using multilevel mixed-effects models, the study analyzed four continuity variables: contacts per point, possessions, completed complexes, and overhead passes. Results showed that smaller courts with fewer players enhanced inter-team continuity, while larger courts with more players promoted intra-team continuity. These findings provide practical guidance for volleyball teaching, supporting the creation of holistic learning environments aligned with SDG 4, fostering a holistic development through sport.
Motor Conflict and Gender
Authors: de Ocáriz Unai Sáez , Pla-Pla Paula , Pic Miguel
Published: February 2025

This study addresses motor conflict literacy from a gender perspective, which is fundamental for managing interpersonal conflicts equitably and promoting inclusive and respectful education in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through an active methodology based on the simulation of motor conflicts, 34 students from the Degree in Physical Activity and Sport Sciences created and represented conflict situations in motor contexts. This intervention fostered critical reflection on the management of motor conflicts, gender equity, and peaceful coexistence. The results underscore the effectiveness of these strategies in developing socio-emotional competencies and creating inclusive and equitable educational environments. Physical education emerges as a key tool for improving school coexistence and contributing to the achievement of the SDGs, fostering the development of a more just, empathetic, and respectful citizenship.
Educating Gender Equity and Emotional Well-Being in a Rural Primary School Through Traditional Games
Authors: Joli Belén Barés
Published: February 2025

Modern physical education should respond to the significant challenges set by international organizations such as the UN. Among these priority objectives, educating gender equity and emotional well-being stand out. Traditional sporting games (TSG) are exceptional educational resources for creating a wide variety of motor experiences that will lead to a wide variety of equitable motor conducts and emotional well-being. This study aimed to compare the impact of an educational intervention of TSG in physical education with another intervention based on the practice of a sport on emotional states and gender stereotypes in primary school students in two rural schools. The study confirms that practicing TSG resulted in more intense positive emotions and lower negative emotions than during sports. The TSG program also led to changes in gender stereotypes, which was not observed in the control group.
The Supply Chain Transportation and Route Planning Under Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Xie Xiaohe , Qin Ya , Zhang Xuan , Li Hongming , Zhang Abby Yurong
Published: February 2025

As concerns over environmental pollution and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions intensify, sustainable strategies in supply chain transportation are critical. This paper proposes a novel approach to optimizing transportation routes and reducing carbon emissions in a green supply chain using deep reinforcement learning. The research targets a three-tier green supply chain consisting of manufacturers, third-party logistics providers (3PL), and retailers. First, a carbon reduction model for transportation is established, accounting for both product greenness and carbon emissions that influence demand. The study then introduces a Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO)-based contract model, combining cost-sharing and profit-sharing mechanisms between retailers and logistics providers to incentivize eco-friendly practices.
The effect of kinesthetic tactile stimulation on enhancing motoric development in babies with low birth weight
Authors: Sadiman Sadiman , Islamiyati Islamiyati , Aprilyadi Nadi , Dwi Ari Wibowo Wahyu
Published: February 2025

Neonatal mortality in Indonesia is predominantly attributed to Low Birth Weight (LBW), prematurity, asphyxia, and infections, with LBW infants at an elevated risk of mortality and developmental delays. The 2025 health goals in Indonesia prioritize reducing infant mortality, maternal mortality, and malnutrition. Metro City has implemented strategies such as healthcare training and enhanced referral networks to support these objectives. This study investigates the effect of tactile kinesthetic stimulation on motor development in LBW infants treated in a Metro City hospital from September to December 2019. Using a quasi-experimental design, 22 LBW infants were divided into intervention and control groups, each with 11 infants selected through quota sampling. Motor development was assessed using validated observation tools and analyzed with paired t-tests (α = 0.05). Results indicated a significant improvement in motor development in the intervention group after 10 days of tactile kinesthetic stimulation (p = 0.001, p < 0.05), as well as a significant increase within the control group (p = 0.004, p < 0.05). A comparison on day 10 revealed a significant difference favoring the intervention group (p = 0.001, p < 0.05). The findings suggest that tactile kinesthetic stimulation effectively enhances motor development in LBW infants compared to standard care. However, the small sample size limits the generalizability of the results, warranting further research to confirm these findings in broader populations.
Unveiling the muco-microbiotic layer: a three-component framework for mucosal health and disease
Authors: Cappello Francesco , Gratie Melania I.
Published: February 2025

We wish to bring attention to the critical role of the muco-microbiotic layer, a dynamic and integrated system located at mucosal surfaces. This layer represents a cornerstone of host-microbe interactions, composed of three key components: the mucus, the microbiota, and extracellular nanovesicles (commonly referred to as exosomes).
Isaiah 10:1–4 and the welfare of the poor in Nkanuland, Enugu state, Nigeria
Authors: Ugwuewo Chisom S.
Published: February 2025

Over the centuries, history has shown that peasant members of society are drenched with various forms of marginalisation. These often come from the more privileged members of society and even the government. Studies have also shown that the religious sphere that ought to be the hope of the neglected poor has turned out to be like the political milieu in the secular world. Isaiah 10:1–4 spelt out punishment meted out for the violators of the rights of the peasant poor. The text indicates that the poor have been neglected in the past millennium. There have likely been no studies that took into cognisance the neglect of the poor from Isaiah 10:1–4 in the context of Nkanuland. Isaiah 10:1–4 examines the height at which the Jewish rulers exploit the poor at their various dispensations. However, such wicked acts by such leaders would not go unpunished. The poor are highly marginalised using different means by both religious and political leaders. The insufficient welfare provision for the poor has consequently led to ill health, death, vulnerability to danger, psychological stress, social alienation, poor education, poor diet and other related problems in Nigeria in general and Nkanuland in particular. The researcher, therefore, seeks to take a critical look at Isaiah 10:1–4 and applies its exegetical result(s) in Nkanu. It is argued that if the text is practically applied by religious and political leaders in Nkanuland, there would be improved welfare provision for the poor. Rhetoric and sociological approaches common to Old Testament exegesis are employed.Contribution: The researcher posits that Isaiah 10:1–4 would be a feasible solution to curb the incessant marginalisation of the peasant poor in Igboland in general and Nkanuland in particular. This would enhance both human and other aspects of development in Nkanuland.
Awareness of Rights amongst Caregivers of Children with Disabilities: A Hospital-based Survey
Authors: Majumdar Ritu , Chauhan Sonal , Preenja Ravi Kumar , Bhardwaj Shikha Bhatnagar
Published: February 2025

Objective:

This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the level of awareness amongst caregivers of children with disabilities regarding disability, disability certification, rights, benefits, welfare schemes and legislations for persons with disabilities.

Design:

A cross-sectional hospital-based survey was conducted as part of this study.

Patients/Participants:

Caregivers of children with locomotor disability and autism spectrum disorder, aged between 3 and 18 years and attending the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation outpatient department were recruited for this study.

Materials and Methods:

After informed consent, a pre-structured pro forma was filled by the principal investigator/coprincipal investigators of this study. The pro forma consisted of demographic profile and 25 questions regarding disability, disability certification, rights and benefits and various government welfare schemes related to disability.

Results:

The study revealed a significant lack of awareness amongst caregivers regarding disability and government welfare schemes.

Conclusion:

The findings underscore the substantial ignorance about disability and negative beliefs amongst caregivers, contributing to the underutilisation of rehabilitation services. Enhancing awareness amongst healthcare professionals at the district and community levels regarding disability and welfare schemes could significantly improve the accessibility of these programmes.
Factors Associated with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy in Individuals Having Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Retrospective Cross-sectional Hospital-based Study
Authors: Ramamoorthy V. , Indra T. Naga , Kannappan Suvetha , Sangeetha G. , Kaleeswaran S.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a well-known microvascular complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), attributed to chronic hyperglycaemia. It is defined as the presence of peripheral nerve dysfunction in diabetics after excluding other causes.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to determine the factors associated with DPN in individuals with T2DM.

Materials and Methods:

This facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted using 81 records of diabetic patients who attended the Podiatry Clinic, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at PSGIMSR, Coimbatore. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. The data were entered into MS Excel and analysed using SPSS software version 28.0. Appropriate descriptive and inferential statistics were used, with P < 0.05 considered significant.

Results:

The mean age of the participants is 56 years, with approximately 57% being male. Approximately 67.9% were taking antidiabetic drugs alone, 19.8% were using both antidiabetic drugs and insulin and 12.3% were on insulin alone. Smoking was reported by 14.8% of the participants, and 3.7% had a habit of alcohol consumption. About 59.3% had hypertension. DPN was found in 30.9%, with polyneuropathy being the most common form (92%). Age, gender, body mass index, duration of diabetes, smoking and alcohol consumption were not associated with DPN. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that participants who were on insulin treatment (indicative of severe disease) and who had hypertension were significantly associated with DPN.

Conclusion:

About 31% of the patients were affected by DPN, with a greater risk seen in individuals managing their diabetes with insulin, which is indicative of severe disease and those with hypertension. Regular DPN screening and optimal management of blood sugar and blood pressure are essential for patients with diabetes.
Moyamoya Disease: A Cerebrovascular Involvement in a Child with Wiskott–Aldrich Syndrome
Authors: Das Emilee , Pati Sananda , Jesmin Saherin , Paul Abhik
Published: February 2025

Background:

Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome (WAS) is a rare X-linked disorder characterized by immunodeficiency, thrombocytopenia, and eczema, with a risk of autoimmune phenomena.

Clinical Description:

A 3-year-old boy presented to us with a history of recurrent skin and mucosal bleeds, itchy skin lesions, and recurrent purulent ear discharge. He had been hospitalized for pneumonia and meningitis earlier, having developed left-sided hemiplegia associated with a cerebral infarct. On examination, he was growth retarded with pallor, hepatosplenomegaly, multiple purpuric spots, and infected scalp lesions. In addition, he had spastic hemiparesis in the left side.

Management and Outcome:

Investigation revealed microcytic hypochromic anemia, eosinophilia, thrombocytopenia, and very high IgE titer (10,433). Coagulation profile was normal. Tuberculosis work-up was negative. The mean platelet volume was low normal (7.3) and bone marrow showed decreased number and size of megakaryocytes. Exome sequencing showed pathogenic mutation of WAS gene in exon 3 hemizygous XLR variant. The patient received weekly intravenous immunoglobulin therapy and cotrimoxazole. The eczema, thrombocytopenia, and infections improved. Later, he developed sudden-onset bilateral loss of vision. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging brain revealed acute infarct on the left occipital region and gliosis in the right cerebral hemisphere with MR angiography showing middle and posterior cerebral artery thrombosis and narrowing of bilateral distal internal carotid arteries suggestive of moyamoya disease. Immunosuppressive agents and antiplatelets could not be administered, so the child was kept under supportive care.

Conclusion:

This case makes pediatricians aware of the possibility of cerebrovascular events as a manifestation of autoimmune vasculitis in children with WAS. Optimal treatment for such cases needs research.
Prenatal Spinal Cord Ischemic Stroke: Clinical Presentation and Multidisciplinary Management Strategy
Authors: García Díaz Francisco José , Medina Bethencourt Marcos , Martin Laura Beth , Ferrari Cortés Araceli
Published: February 2025

Perinatal ischemic stroke is a focal interruption of cerebral blood flow that can affect the spinal cord, although this is a rare location. We present the case of a term neonate with ischemic infarction of the cervical spinal cord. He was born by vaginal delivery and required noninvasive respiratory support due to generalized hypotonia, decreased mobility, and respiratory distress. Physical examination revealed a bell-shaped chest with atrophic intercostal muscles, upper limbs in abduction with elbows flexed at shoulder level, and hands positioned near the chin. The lower limbs remained flexed with partial muscle tone. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed an extensive ischemic lesion from C4 to T4. Anticoagulant therapy was initiated due to persistent protein C deficiency. The patient was discharged with home noninvasive ventilation and multidisciplinary follow-up.
Descriptive Analysis of the Characteristics of Patients’ Referral from Matsu Islands to Taiwan: A Single Medical Center Experience
Authors: Lo Yi-Pang , Lai Chung-Yu , Hsieh Ping-Hsuan , Huang Yen-Chiao , Chen Yin-Chung , Tsai Shih-Hung
Published: February 2025

Background:

Patients at the offshore islands need to be transported to the Taiwan mainland to be able to reach the advanced health-care facilities.

Aim:

The purpose of this study was to identify the characteristics of patients transferred from Matsu islands to a medical center.

Methods:

This study was conducted at a medical center in the northern Taipei City. Medical records were reviewed from the department of emergency medicine and hospitalization system. Adult patients over 18 years old were enrolled between January 2019 and September 2023. All the data were handled using the SPSS version 24.0 software (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA).

Results:

Of the 316 adult patents, with the majority being more than 50 years old, male, and local residents. There were a total of 500 visits including the hospitalization from the emergency department (ED) (61.4%), hospitalization from the outpatient department (30.6%), and only visit to the ED (8.0%). Dominant reasons were injury, poisoning, and certain other consequences of external causes (23.6%), neoplasms (16.0%), and diseases of the circulatory system (11.8%). Nearly half of the visits (46.6%) needed the operation therapy, 15% of patents were disposed to the intensive care unit, and a large proportion of them (36.8%) accepted the treatment from the different specialties.

Conclusion:

Our results have illustrated the features of medical utilization of the patients from Matsu islands. Injury was the main cause which led to the advanced medical care. In addition, the necessity of the multidisciplinary care was also observed from the medical records.
Efficient DNA-Based Logistic Mapping Algorithm for Color Image Encryption
Authors: Goudjil Aya , Benyoucef Aicha , Hamadouche M'Hamed , Riahla Mohamed Amine
Published: February 2025

INTRODUCTION: Color images hold significant information and are widely used in diverse domains. The protection of these images against unauthorized access over the internet is a necessity that relies on encryption techniques. However, traditional encryption methods face challenges with the increasing capability and efficiency of quantum computing to solve complex problems. DNA cryptography is a promising field in information security, utilizing DNA molecules with massive parallelism and vast storage capacity to encode and decode information. While chaotic systems have been widely used in encryption due to their sensitivity to initial conditions and parameter values, resulting in unpredictability and significant variation. Exploiting the characteristics of DNA cryptography and chaotic systems is a promising alternative for securing data. Nevertheless, current methodologies exhibit limitations such as a small key space and weak resistance to differential attacks.OBJECTIVES: This paper addresses these gaps by proposing an RGB image encryption algorithm based on DNA cryptography and a 1D logistic map.METHODS: The proposed method randomly generates a DNA encoding/decoding table to generate the row-column permutation of the image. After the permutation of the image, the logistic map is used to generate three keys for RGB channels and seven DNA encoding-decoding rules, three are used to encode the keys into DNA sequence, the second three to encode the image RGB channel, and the last to perform the DNA-XOR operation. Finally, decode the result into integers using the DNA encoding/decoding table and generate the encrypted image.RESULTS: The analysis of the proposed technique demonstrates significant robustness against various attacks, as evidenced by metrics such as a key space exceeding 2100, an average NPCR of 99.613667%, an average UACI of 50.273742%, an entropy value approaching 8, and a strong key sensitivity.CONCLUSION: These results validate its capacity to effectively resist differential, brute-force, and statistical attacks.
Polynomial Optimization for Nonlinear Dynamics: Theory, Algorithms and Applications
Authors: Fantuzzi Giovanni , Goluskin David , Lasserre Jean-Bernard
Published: February 2025

This workshop focused on using computational tools of polynomial optimization to deduce information about nonlinear dynamical systems, including systems governed by ordinary or partial differential equations. This approach sits at the interface of various research areas, requiring combinations of applied nonlinear dynamics and control theory, polynomial optimization, real algebraic geometry, partial differential equations, and variational analysis. The workshop brought together researchers in these different areas to share recent advances and to build the connections required for further progress.
Calculus of Variations
Authors: Bronsard Lia , Colombo Maria , Székelyhidi Jr. László , Tonegawa Yoshihiro
Published: February 2025

The Calculus of Variations is at the same time a classical subject, with long-standing open questions which have generated exciting discoveries in recent decades, and a modern subject in which new types of questions arise, driven by mathematical developments and emergent applications. It is also a subject with a very wide scope, touching on interrelated areas that include geometric variational problems, optimal transportation, geometric inequalities and domain optimization problems, elliptic regularity, geometric measure theory, harmonic analysis, physics, free boundary problems, etc. The workshop will balance the traditional interests of past conferences with new emerging perspectives. The topics described in this proposal are linked to each other via the methods of Calculus of Variations that are employed, and it is our belief that a meeting with such a large group of experts will lead to substantial advances in these areas, as well as building bridges between them.
Homotopical Algebra and Higher Structures
Authors: Batanin Michael , Lazarev Andrey , Livernet Muriel , Markl Martin
Published: February 2025

Homotopical algebra and higher category theory play an increasingly important role in pure mathematics, and higher methods have seen tremendous development in the last couple of decades. The talks delivered at the workshop described some of the latest progress in this area and applications to various problems of algebra, geometry, and combinatorics.
Explicit Methods in Number Theory
Authors: Belabas Karim , Poonen Bjorn , Rodriguez Villegas Fernando
Published: February 2025

The workshop brought together people attacking key modern problems in number theory via techniques involving concrete or computable descriptions. Here, number theory was interpreted broadly, including algebraic and analytic number theory, Galois theory, arithmetic of varieties, zeta and L-functions and their special values, and modular forms and functions.
GHEARD: An Open-Access Modular Curriculum to Incorporate Equity, Anti-Racism, and Decolonization Training Into Global Health Education
Authors: Rule Amy R.L. , Haq Heather A. , Barnes Adelaide , Bowen DeMarco , Chiume-Kayuni Msandeni , Cameron Whitney , Fanny S. Aya , Groothuis Elizabeth , Hodge Bethany , Howard Cindy , Hudspeth James C. , Langford Sheridan , McHenry Megan S. , Opara Ijeoma Nnodim , Kamath-Rayne Beena D. , Suchdev Parminder S. , Tam Reena P. , Taylor Franci , Musiime Victor
Published: February 2025

Background Global health (GH) interest is rising among graduate medical education (GME) trainees, yet GH engagement is marred by the impact of colonization or racism, and there remains a lack of training to confront these challenges.

Objective To develop a modular, open-access curriculum that provides training in decolonization for GH GME and evaluate its feasibility and impact on learners’ critical reflection on decolonization.

Methods From 2019 to 2022, 40 GH educators, including international and indigenous scholars from diverse organizations, created the Global Health Education for Equity, Anti-Racism, and Decolonization (GHEARD) curriculum. Using Kern’s 6 steps of curriculum development, critical gaps were identified and shaped into 8 modules, including a facilitator training module. Learning objectives and activities were developed using strategies grounded in transformative learning theory and trauma-informed educational approaches. The curriculum was peer-reviewed and piloted at multiple national conferences and institutions to assess feasibility and effectiveness in fostering critical reflection on decolonization.

Results Pilot testing demonstrated GME implementation feasibility. Based on initial educator feedback, facilitator tools and an implementation guide were incorporated to enhance usability. Nearly all (59 of 61) trainees felt GHEARD was effective or very effective in encouraging reflection on decolonization, and 72% (32 of 44) felt GHEARD encouraged reflection on motivations for engaging in GH. GHEARD was launched as a free online resource in June 2023 and garnered 3192 views by December 2024.

Conclusions To our knowledge, GHEARD is the first comprehensive decolonization curriculum designed specifically for GME. Program evaluation indicates GHEARD is feasible to implement and effective in promoting critical reflection on decolonization.