bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Level Of Compliance With High Blood Pressure Chechs In Elderly People With Hypertension
Authors: Yunita Sari Rima , Luklukaningsih Zuyina , Solichati Rizqi Amalia , Windarti Mariana
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Hypertension is a non-communicable disease (NCD) which is a severe health problem. This disease is categorized as a silent disease because sufferers do not know they have hypertension before having their blood pressure checked. Checking blood pressure in the elderly, especially in blood pressure sufferers, is one of the routine treatments for preventing the severity of hypertension. And Compliance with blood pressure checks is an important factor in controlling the severity of hypertension. So it is important to check the level of compliance in the elderly.
Methods: This research uses an observational approach with data presentation using quantitative descriptives. Checking blood pressure in elderly people with hypertension using a Tensimeter. The number of subjects in this study was 40 elderly people who suffered from hypertension. The level of complience will be checked using a likert scale. The research was conducted in Semangkak village, Klaten district.
Results: The level of compliance in the poor category was 40%, in the fair category was 42.5 %, and in the high category was 17.5 %.
Conclusion: Based on the results it shows that the level of compliance of elderly people with hypertension in carrying out blood pressure checks is on average in the medium and low categories
Keywords: Compliance, Hypertension, Elderly
The Stellar Disk Structure Revealed by the Mono-age Populations of the LAMOST Red Clump Star Sample
Authors: Yu Zheng , Chen Bingqiu , Lian Jianhui , Wang Chun , Liu Xiaowei
Published: January 2025

Understanding the structure of the Galactic disk is crucial for understanding the formation and evolutionary history of the Milky Way. This study examines the structure of the Galactic disk by analyzing a sample of 138,667 primary red clump (RC) stars from the Large Sky Area Multi-Object Fiber Spectroscopic Telescope and Gaia data sets. We have categorized these RC stars into mono-age populations and investigated their spatial distributions within the R–Z plane, estimating scale heights and lengths through the fitting of their vertical and radial density profiles. Our analysis indicates that the vertical profiles of these mono-age populations fit a dual-component disk model, where both components exhibit significant flaring, particularly in the outer disk regions. Within a constant Galactocentric radius R, the scale heights of the first component, representing the morphologically thin disk, rise with age. In contrast, the scale heights of the second component, corresponding to the morphologically thick disk, remain comparatively stable across different age groups. Additionally, the radial density profiles of both disk components predominantly peak within a radial range of 7.5–8.5 kpc. These findings underscore the importance of age as a crucial factor in shaping the spatial distribution and structural evolution of the Galactic disk, offering valuable insights into its complex dynamics and history.
The Size of Accretion Disks from Self-consistent X-Ray Spectra and UV/Optical/NIR Photometry Fitting: Applications to ASASSN–14li and HLX–1
Authors: Guolo Muryel , Mummery Andrew
Published: January 2025

We implement a standard thin disk model with the outer disk radius (R
out) as a free parameter, integrating it into a standard X-ray fitting package to enable self-consistent and simultaneous fitting of X-ray spectra and Ultraviolet (UV), Optical, and Near-infrared (NIR) photometry. We apply the model to the late-time data (Δt ≈ 350–1300 days) of the tidal disruption event (TDE) ASASSN–14li. We show that at these late times, the multiwavelength emission of the source can be fully described by a bare compact accretion disk. We obtain a black hole mass (M
BH) of

7

−
2

+
3

×
1

0

6

M

⊙

, consistent with host-galaxy scaling relations, and an R
out of 45 ± 13 R
g, consistent with the circularization radius, with possible expansion at the latest epoch. We discuss how simplistic models, such as a single-temperature blackbody fitted to either X-ray spectra or UV/optical photometry, lead to erroneous interpretations of the scale/energetics of TDE emission. We also apply the model to the soft/high state of the intermediate-mass black hole candidate HLX–1. The model fits the full spectral energy distribution (from X-rays to NIR) without needing an additional stellar population component. We investigate how relativistic effects improve our results by implementing a version of the model with full ray tracing calculations in the Kerr metric. For HLX–1, we find

M

BH

=

4

−
1

+
3

×
1

0

4

M

⊙

and R
out ≈ few × 103
R
g, in agreement with previous findings. The relativistic model can constrain the inclination (i) of HLX–1 to be 10° ≤ i ≤70°.
High-z Stellar Masses Can Be Recovered Robustly with JWST Photometry
Authors: Cochrane R. K. , Katz H. , Begley R. , Hayward C. C. , Best P. N.
Published: January 2025

Robust inference of galaxy stellar masses from photometry is crucial for constraints on galaxy assembly across cosmic time. Here, we test a commonly used spectral energy distribution (SED) fitting code using simulated galaxies from the Sphinx
20 cosmological radiation hydrodynamics simulation with JWST NIRCam photometry forward-modeled with radiative transfer. Fitting the synthetic photometry with various star formation history models, we show that recovered stellar masses are, encouragingly, generally robust to within a factor of ∼3 for galaxies in the range M
⋆ ∼ 107−109
M
⊙ at z = 5−10. These results are in stark contrast to recent work claiming that stellar masses can be underestimated by as much as an order of magnitude in these mass and redshift ranges. However, while >90% of masses are recovered to within 0.5 dex, there are notable systematic trends, with stellar masses typically overestimated for low-mass galaxies (M
⋆ ≲ 108
M
⊙) and slightly underestimated for high-mass galaxies (M
⋆ ≳ 109
M
⊙). We demonstrate that these trends arise due to the SED fitting code poorly modeling the impact of strong emission lines on broadband photometry. These systematic trends, which exist for all star formation history parameterizations tested, have a tilting effect on the inferred stellar mass function, with the number densities of massive galaxies underestimated (particularly at the lowest redshifts studied) and the number densities of lower-mass galaxies typically overestimated. Overall, this work suggests that we should be optimistic about our ability to infer the masses of high-z galaxies observed with JWST (notwithstanding contamination from active galactic nuclei) but careful when modeling the impact of strong emission lines on broadband photometry.
Detection of a New GeV Source in the Outer Region of the Coma Cluster: A Signature of External Accretion Shock?
Authors: Chen Xiao-Bin , Wang Kai , Huang Yi-Yun , Zhang Hai-Ming , Xi Shao-Qiang , Liu Ruo-Yu , Wang Xiang-Yu
Published: January 2025

The supersonic flow motions associated with infall of baryonic gas toward sheets and filaments, as well as cluster mergers, produces large-scale shock waves. The shocks associated with galaxy clusters can be classified mainly into two categories: internal shocks appearing in the hot intracluster medium within the viral radius and external accretion shocks forming in the outer cold region well outside of the virial radius. Cosmic-ray (CR) electrons and/or protons accelerated by these shocks are expected to produce gamma rays through inverse-Compton scattering (ICS) or inelastic pp collisions, respectively. Recent studies have found a spatially extended GeV source within the virial radius, consistent with the internal shock origin. Here, we report the detection of a new GeV source at a distance of about 2

.

°

8 from the center of the Coma cluster through the analysis of 16.2 yr of Fermi-LAT data. The hard spectrum of the source, in agreement with the ICS origin, and its location in a large-scale filament of galaxies points to the external accretion shock origin. The gamma-ray (0.1−103 GeV) luminosity of the source, 1.4 × 1042 erg s−1, suggests that a fraction  ~10−3 of the kinetic energy flux through the shock surface is transferred to relativistic CR electrons.
First release of the European marine omics biodiversity observation network (EMO BON) shotgun metagenomics data from water and sediment samples
Authors: Pavloudi Christina , Santi Ioulia , Azua Iñigo , Baña Zuriñe , Bastianini Mauro , Belser Caroline , Bilbao Jone , Bitz-Thorsen Julie , Broudin Caroline , Camusat Mathieu , Cancio Ibon , Caray-Counil Louis , Casotti Raffaella , Castel Jade , Comtet Thierry , Cox Cymon , Daguin Claire , Díaz de Cerio Oihane , Exter Katrina , Fauvelot Cécile , Frada Miguel , Galand Pierre , Garczarek Laurence , González Fernández Jose , Guillou Laure , Hablützel Pascal , Heynderickx Hanneloor , Houbin Céline , Kervella Anne , Krystallas Apostolos , Lagaisse Rune , Laroquette Arnaud , Lescure Lyvia , Lopes Eva , Loulakaki Melina , Louro Bruno , Magalhaes Catarina , Maidanou Maria , Margiotta Francesca , Montresor Marina , Not Fabrice , Paredes Estefanía , Percopo Isabella , Péru Erwan , Poulain Julie , Præbel Kim , Rigaut-Jalabert Fabienne , Romac Sarah , Stavroulaki Melanthia , Souza Troncoso Jesús , Thiébaut Eric , Thomas Wilfried , Tkacz Andrzej , Trano Anna Chiara , Wincker Patrick , Pade Nicolas
Published: January 2025

The European Marine Omics Biodiversity Observation Network (EMO BON) is an initiative of the European Marine Biological Resource Centre (EMBRC) to establish a persistent genomic observatory among designated European coastal marine sites, sharing the same protocols for sampling and data curation. Environmental samples are collected from the water column, and at some sites, soft sediments and hard substrates (Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures - ARMS), together with a set of mandatory and discretionary metadata (including Essential Ocean Variables - EOVs). Samples are collected following standardized protocols at regular and specified intervals, and sequenced in large six-monthly batches at a centralized sequencing facility. The use of standard operating procedures (SOPs) during data collection, library preparation and sequencing aims to provide uniformity among the data collected from the sites, coupled with strict adherence to open and FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) data principles, ensures maximum comparability among samples and enhance reusability and interoperability of the data with other data sources. The observatory network was launced in June 2021, when the first sampling campaign took place.
Lung cancer diagnosis from computed tomography scans using convolutional neural network architecture with Mavage pooling technique
Authors: Abe Ayomide , Nyathi Mpumelelo , Okunade Akintunde
Published: January 2025

Background

Lung cancer is a deadly disease. An early diagnosis can significantly improve the patient survival and quality of life. One potential solution is using deep learning (DL) algorithms to automate the diagnosis using patient computed tomography (CT) scans. However, the limited availability of training data and the computational complexity of existing algorithms, as well as their reliance on high-performance systems, limit the potential of DL algorithms. To improve early lung cancer diagnoses, this study proposes a low-cost convolutional neural network (CNN) that uses a Mavage pooling technique to diagnose lung cancers.

Methods

The DL-based model uses five convolution layers with two residual connections and Mavage pooling layers. We trained the CNN using two publicly available datasets comprised of the IQ_OTH/NCCD dataset and the chest CT scan dataset. Additionally, we integrated the Mavage pooling in the AlexNet, ResNet-50, and GoogLeNet architectures to analyze the datasets. We evaluated the performance of the models based on accuracy and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC).

Results

The CNN model achieved a 99.70% accuracy and a 99.66% AUROC when the scans were classified as either cancerous or non-cancerous. It achieved a 90.24% accuracy and a 94.63% AUROC when the scans were classified as containing either normal, benign, or malignant nodules. It achieved a 95.56% accuracy and a 99.37% AUROC when lung cancers were classified. Additionally, the results indicated that the diagnostic abilities of AlexNet, ResNet-50, and GoogLeNet were improved with the introduction of the Mavage pooling technique.

Conclusions

This study shows that a low-cost CNN can effectively diagnose lung cancers from patient CT scans. Utilizing Mavage pooling technique significantly improves the CNN diagnostic capabilities.
Consumer Contract Law and the Sustainability Goals in Slovenia: Any Room for Improvement?
Authors:   University of Maribor, Faculty of Law, Maribor, Slovenia, Weingerl Petra
Published: January 2025

The Sale of Goods Directive and the Digital Content and Services Directive were transposed into the Slovene legal system with the new Consumer Protection Act in 2022. This contribution assesses whether and how sustainability goals have been internalised in consumer contract law and policy in Slovenia, particularly in the context of the changes introduced with the Sale of Goods Directive. It focuses on remedies for non-conformity of goods and services, while also examining the obligatory guarantee for technical products, which is a distinctive measure found in the Consumer Protection Act. The current state of play heavily relies on an awareness-raising model and the empowered, eco-friendly consumer, who is expected to purchase eco-friendly goods and resort to eco-friendly remedies in cases of non-conformity. These measures could be further strengthened by encouraging repair and self-repair, supporting replacement with refurbished goods, and extending guarantee periods to promote the production of more durable goods. The contribution identifies the obligatory guarantee as the most sustainability-friendly concept in Slovenian consumer sales law. In particular, it governs repair as the primary remedy and includes provisions on the availability of spare parts and access to repair services. This framework could serve as a model for the system of remedies for non-conforming goods at the EU level.
Sale of Goods With Digital Elements: The Obligation to Supply Updates in Italian Law
Authors:   Wide Group Srl, Bolzano, Italy, Perfetti Gabriele
Published: January 2025

This paper addresses the transposition of Directive (EU) 2019/771 (Sale of Goods Directive, SGD) into Italian law, specifically focusing on the rules concerning goods with digital elements and software updates. The paper explores the rationale behind these innovative provisions, distinguishing between the legal concepts of “update” and “upgrade”. It further elaborates on the Italian transposition of the SGD provisions regarding updates, clarifying the legal nature of the obligation to supply updates under Italian law, as well as its main characteristics. The impact of these provisions in Italy is examined both from a B2C and B2B perspective. The B2C perspective considers the potential extension of the legal relationship between the seller and the consumer to third-party update suppliers. The B2B perspective examines the possibility of extending the obligation to provide updates to non-consumer contracts involving goods with digital elements, by applying the principle of integrative good faith.
Exploring the Factors Influencing Entrepreneurial Intentions of Engineering Students
Authors: Arias Martin , Flad Michael
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the entrepreneurial intention of engineering and non-engineering students to understand the potential entrepreneurial gaps among future engineers. The study specifically examines the underlying factors, especially looking at the entrepreneurial scales of mindset and attitudes. The study is a quantitative research conducted by a survey with 112 participants. The results reveal that engineering students exhibit lower levels of entrepreneurial intention compared to the non-engineering group, showing that there is a gap between groups. The two groups exhibit similar levels of entrepreneurial attitudes, while the engineering group shows lower levels of entrepreneurial mindset. The effect of mindset on intention is significant among engineering students and insignificant among non-engineering students, whereas attitudes do not demonstrate a substantial discrepancy. The study found no notable variation in the promotion of entrepreneurial perception among students. The results show that developing an entrepreneurial mindset among engineering students is vital for promoting their entrepreneurial intentions. To achieve this, the research shows that institutions should provide the necessary skills and a supportive environment. Implications for institutions consist of establishing programs that advance entrepreneurial thinking and hands-on experience, leading to a new cohort of successful engineers turned entrepreneurs.
The Outcomes of Project-Based Learning System on Metaverse through Design Thinking for Buddhism Innovators
Authors: Sisamud Kiattisak , Chatwattana Pinanta , Piriyasurawong Pallop
Published: January 2025

The project-based learning system on the metaverse through design thinking for Buddhism innovators, or the PjBL system on the metaverse, is designated to be used as a tool to promote self-directed learning and Buddhism in Thailand. The PjBL system on the metaverse emphasizes the learning style that can develop the 21st-century skills, and the system relies mainly on the processes of project-based learning and design thinking, which are believed to bring about creative strategies for the development of new innovations based on new ideas. The PjBL system on the metaverse can be put into practical use in digital learning environments on the metaverse, which are capable of providing realistic and immersive learning experiences in such a way that users can feel as if they were in the physical world. The system also supports interactions, easy access to learning resources, and sharing of information, all of which are said to increase learners’ confidence and practical skills in using digital technologies. This study was carried out by means of pre-experimental research method with a onegroup pre- and post-test design, and the research results are consistent with all four research hypotheses. According to the observations, it is found that the PjBL system on the metaverse is considered a learning tool in the virtual world that Buddhist innovators can practically apply to create new innovations to promote Buddhism through immersive learning technology. Furthermore, the PjBL system in the metaverse can promote experiential learning, enabling users to acquire new bodies of knowledge as to their own abilities, find out new methods to solve problems, create their own works, carry out their tasks efficiently, develop different knowledge and experiences, and improve necessary technological skills needed in today’s era.
How Generative AI Influences Students’ Self-Regulated Learning and Critical Thinking Skills? A Systematic Review
Authors: Sardi Juli , Darmansyah  , Candra Oriza , Yuliana Devi Faizah , Habibullah  , Yanto Doni Tri Putra , Eliza Fivia
Published: January 2025

Generative artificial intelligence (AI), particularly tools such as ChatGPT, is transforming education by enhancing self-regulated learning (SRL) and critical thinking skills, two essential competencies in the digital era. This study systematically analyzes the impact of generative AI on these skills using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework to identify, evaluate, and synthesize relevant studies. Document searches were conducted in Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect, focusing on publications from 2022 to 2024, when ChatGPT was first widely adopted. Of the 3,214 documents identified, 557 met the initial screening criteria, and 38 studies were selected for detailed analysis. The findings reveal that 71.4% of studies reported AI’s positive role in SRL, mainly through personalized learning, metacognitive support, and adaptive feedback. Likewise, 62.5% of studies reported its significant role in critical thinking, supporting the process of analysis, evaluation, and reflection. However, researchers cautioned against an overreliance on technology, which one said could take away some students’ ability to think for themselves. Such findings indicate that educational institutions need to change their ways and include generative AI in a model that focuses on areas that foster learner independence. This approach will assist teachers and decision-makers in harnessing the distinctive kitsch of AI technology by creating new learning spaces that are creative and future-oriented.
Les Combattantes : une anthologie de femmes héroïques
Authors: Suvélor Sonia
Published: January 2025

Lorsqu’on pense à la Première Guerre mondiale, ce sont généralement des flashs de « poilus » dans les tranchées, de masques à gaz, de soldats défigurés et autres atrocités qui nous viennent en tête. Force est de reconnaître qu’au-delà de cette vision cauchemardesque, on retient un conflit très masculin, où la femme ne semble avoir aucune place, si ce n’est celle très glamourisée d’infirmière, dont les différents uniformes figurent dans les magazines de mode de l’époque. La série Les Combattantes fait sauter ces stéréotypes en apportant une autre dimension au rôle des femmes, ces guerrières de l’ombre. À travers cette mini-série de huit épisodes sur le rôle crucial des patriotes féminines, c’est le devoir de mémoire ainsi que la nécessité d’une reconnaissance occultée qui sont ravivés avec efficacité.
Investigating the Impact of ChatGPT as an AI Tool on ESL Writing
Authors: Abduljawad Samah Abdulhadi
Published: January 2025

This research explores the impact of ChatGPT, an AI tool, on ESL students' writing proficiency at a Saudi Arabian university. Using a mixed-methods approach, data from 130 students showed a significant positive effect on their writing. A focus group interview with six students highlighted opportunities such as personalized feedback, language skill development, vocabulary expansion, and greater autonomy. However, challenges included a lack of contextual understanding, loss of individuality in writing, reduced creativity, and ethical concerns. The findings offer valuable insights for educators on how to effectively integrate ChatGPT into writing instruction while addressing its challenges.
Experimental Study on Bond Performance between Concrete and BFRP Bars
Authors: Ifrahim Muhammad Saad , Sangi Abdul Jabbar , Khan Shaista
Published: January 2025

The problem of corrosion in reinforced concrete infrastructure can be addressed by using fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) bars, since they are a feasible alternative due to their non-corrosive nature. Basalt fibre-reinforced polymer (BFRP) bars have recently gained attention as a possible substitute for both of these materials because they are less expensive than Carbon Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) and have greater tensile strength than Glass Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP). While considerable research has been conducted on CFRP bars and GFRP bars, studies on BFRP are limited, hindering its incorporation into design guidelines. Therefore, in this study, bond behaviour of BFRP bars in concrete is experimentally evaluated. This study concludes that although BFRP bar shows more slip than steel bar, its bond strength is comparable to that of steel bar. It is also found that the bond strength and maximum slippage reduced with an increase in the bars' diameter and embedment length. Furthermore, the bond strength improves as the cover increases. Furthermore, bond strength equations as proposed by ACI 440.1 R15, CSA S806-02, and CSA S6-06 underestimated the experimental bond strength.
Effect of Petrography of Aggregate on Rutting Behaviour of Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Hassan Syed Shabih ul , Hafeez Imran , Pattal Tausif , Azeem Usman
Published: January 2025

Pavement failure occurs mostly due to poor selection of aggregate, which is highly dependent on aggregate petrography. The limited number of studies has been carried out in the past to relate the minerology of aggregate with the asphalt mix performance. This research aims to link the minerology of aggregate to the rutting of the asphalt pavement. In this study three different quarries of aggregates were collected for study i.e., Pathargarh, Surajgali and Murunj, Pakistan. Physical and mechanical properties of selected aggregate were determined before preparing the mix design. Aggregate properties were well within the limit specified by National Highway Authority (NHA). Then performance tests i.e., Hamburg wheel tracker test were performed on the asphalt mix to determine the rutting. The results showed that Pathargarh and Surajgali aggregate contains 96 and 95 percent carbonate making it basic. In contrast 84 percent quartz were found in Murunj aggregate. Rutting value of Pathargarh is better followed by Surajgali i.e., 3.43 mm and then Murunj 8.63mm. This study concludes that carbonate aggregate has rough texture making it better adhesion with bitumen, while quartz has poor adhesion with bitumen due to its smooth texture making it more susceptible to rutting.
Initial Approach to a Self-Compacting Concrete with Waste from Crushed Wind Turbine Blade
Authors: Hernando-Revenga Manuel , Hurtado-Alonso Nerea , Manso-Morato Javier , Revilla-Cuesta Víctor , Skaf Marta , Ortega-López Vanesa , Manso Juan M.
Published: January 2025

Wind energy has been making its way into renewable energies until today, experiencing a continuous growth worlwide that leads to the urgent task of reflecting on and solving the issue of the recycling of the wind turbine blades. Their complex composition causes that currently there is no a widely acepted solution for it. This study evaluates the incorporation of waste from the crushing of wind turbine blades, which contains fibers, into self-compacting concrete, which can be used for producing any construction element. Therefore, five concrete mixes were made with different percentages of this waste, including a reference mix without this waste. The addition of waste increased the content of fibers in the concrete, which in turn implied an increase in the water/cement ratio. This situation led to a worsening of the mechanical performance of concrete as the waste amount increased, although it was partially compensated by the stitching effect of the fibers. The concrete mix with 1.5% in volume of this waste exhibited flexural and compressive strengths very similar to those of the reference concrete. This shows that incorporating the waste from the crushing of wind turbine blades can allow to produce structural self-compacting concrete.
Use of IoT-Based Technologies for Determination of Traffic Congestion on Road Infrastructure
Authors: Baig Mirza Asad Ullah , Ahmed Ashar , Owais Muhammad
Published: January 2025

Road congestion is mostly common in developing countries where the traffic is heterogeneous and where there is no proper lane discipline. Typical and live traffic state can be identified with the help of IoT-based technologies such as traffic state feature in Google Maps. One can also identify congestion points using this live traffic state which varies through different times of the day and affect road capacity. In this research, the congestion points that were identified by Google Maps are examined by conducting a route-specific survey. The survey is conducted at different times on weekdays and weekends to assess the variably in number of congestion points. In this research, the relationship is established between congestion points and traffic volume at different times of the day and a Chi-square test is performed to check the significance of this relationship. The result shows that the congestion points are significantly related to traffic demand which is higher at one time and lower at another. The result also shows that the trip purpose and trip direction significantly affect the traffic demand at different times of the day.
Causes of Contractual Conflicts in CPEC Project - Two Case Studies
Authors: Aslam Fahad , Abdullah Abdullah , Hanan Abdul , Jawad Mian Muhammad , Mahnoor Inaya
Published: January 2025

China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is considered a game changer for the continent of Asia, Pakistan especially. China has invested around US$ 62 Billion in the fully operational corridor. Contractual conflicts are a significant source of delay in CPEC projects. Contractual conflicts are mostly because of poor financial and management control over it. In this paper, we have discussed the types of contractual conflicts that occur in projects that cause delays and the approaches that will help minimize the conflicts for the smooth occurrence of projects. For this purpose, a questionnaire was prepared and distributed to the major stakeholders of the projects. Secondly, the contractual conflicts are discussed based on the Pakistan literature review and compared with those of other countries. Two case studies were conducted to examine its causes: (1) political involvement and legal issues, (2) procurement and contract management, and (3) land acquisition problems
Finite Element Analysis of Reinforced Concrete (RC) Beams Reinforced with Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP)
Authors: Hamza Muhammad , Raza Ali , Ijaz Ahmed , Ali Hamad
Published: January 2025

Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) has been used in construction as it is lightweight, has flexural strength, is more durable and resistant to corrosion, impact, and fire. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a modern technique to predict the tensile behavior and cracking pattern of structural members using nonlinear finite element analysis (NLFEA). In this current study, 11 specimens of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) reinforced concrete (RC) Beams with different reinforcement bars (#5, #6 and #8 bars) and spacing (30mm, 38mm and 50 mm) along with two different concrete strengths (Normal and high strength) were modelled to predict the flexural behavior, Moment deflection behavior and cracking pattern using ABAQUS 6.12. These specimens were modeled in ABAQUS using CDP Model and calibration was performed on basis of viscosity, dilation angle and meshing size. The outcomes of numerical modeling were compared with those of the experimental results. It has been shown that there is a slight disparity with very small differences between the experimental and numerical results.
Optimizing the alkaline concentration for coir fibre treatment and estimation of lifetime
Authors: Chamath L.G. , Srimal L.K.T. , Sewvandi G.A. , Gallage R. , Epaarachchi J.
Published: January 2025

Researchers are developing sustainable insulation composite materials using lignocellulose fibres, particularly coir fibres, which have low thermal conductivity, low density, high moisture resistance, and excellent thermal stability. However, these fibres naturally contain waxy, gummy, oily substances and impurities on their surfaces, necessitating a pre-treatment process to remove these contaminants before manufacturing. Alkaline treatment is an effective method for this pretreatment, however, selecting the appropriate concentration is critical. Furthermore, thermal decomposition of fibres may occur during composite manufacturing making it essential to assess fibre longevity. In this study, coir fibres were treated with NaOH solutions at concentrations of 0%, 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8%. The effects of alkaline treatment on surface roughness, chemical composition, and thermal stability were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The activation energy (Ea) for the thermal decomposition of lignocellulose substances was analyzed using the Flynn-Wall-Ozawa (FWO), Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS), and Friedman methods over a temperature range of 25 °C to 700 °C. The fibre lifetime was estimated using Toop’s equation. The results indicated that the 4% NaOH-treated sample exhibited superior surface roughness and thermal stability compared to other concentrations. The decomposition of lignocellulose substances began at a conversion rate of 0.2, with an Ea of 128.88 kJ/mol. The estimated fibre lifetime is approximately 6.55×106 hours at 25 °C. The lifetime of coir fibre decreases as temperature increases. Therefore, it is crucial to highlight the necessity of controlling the temperature during the fabrication of composites using coir fibers to prevent thermal degradation.
Big molecules that do not go away
Authors: Abeysekera Ajit
Published: January 2025

Life forms on earth depend vitally upon biopolymers, big molecules consisting of smaller molecules which are linked together, as exemplified by the nucleic acids, proteins and cellulose. In general, biopolymers have both structural and functional roles in living organisms. The lifestyle of humans in modern societies is equally dependent on a different type of big molecule, man-made synthetic polymers (“plastics”) formed by linking together smaller molecules usually obtained from petrochemicals.Plastics are ubiquitous, and are encountered in daily life in almost every activity one can think of. One of the properties of plastics that make them so useful is their durability, in contrast to biopolymers which degrade in the natural environment. Ironically, it is also responsible for making plastics one of the biggest environmental problems facing the world today. A major concern is microplastics, resulting from macroscopic degradation of plastic products, which now pollute the oceans and air, and have been shown to enter into biological systems. In microplastics the basic molecular structure of the polymeric materials is intact. These big molecules are not susceptible to break down by microorganisms; they just don’t go away!Tackling the worldwide problem of pollution by plastics require a multi-pronged approach including better waste management, recycling, developing biodegradable plastics, avoiding single usage products and reducing production. The recent failure of the United Nations Plastic Pollution Treaty, mainly due to a group of petrochemicals producing countries not agreeing to place limits on the production of plastics, reflects at a deeper level the conceptual conflict between unlimited growth and sustainability. It is apparent that the idea that unlimited growth on a planet with limited resources is not sustainable, is not yet universally accepted.
Abstracts: Annual Research Symposium 2024, Postgraduate Institute of Medicine, University of Colombo
Authors: JPGIM Co-Editors
Published: January 2025

NA
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Support of Partners in Preparation for Motherhood and Maternal Satisfaction with Partner Support: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study in the Galle District
Authors: Rathnayaka P. , Rathnayake N.
Published: January 2025

Introduction: In Sri Lanka, male partners play a critical role in maternal health, necessitating their knowledge, support, and involvement during pregnancy to enhance outcomes. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and support of husbands regarding preparation for motherhood (PFM) and evaluated women's satisfaction with their husband's support.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 310 married couples attending antenatal clinics at Teaching Hospital Mahamodara in May 2023. Husbands completed a pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire assessing knowledge (good, average, poor), attitudes (positive, negative), and support (highly supportive, moderately supportive, passively supportive). Women evaluated their satisfaction with their husband’s support (highly, moderately, poorly satisfied). Data were analyzed using SPSS 26, employing descriptive statistics and inferential testsResults: The mean age of husbands and women was 30.59 (SD = 6.32) and 26.68 (SD = 6.28) years, respectively. Good knowledge was observed in 57.4% of husbands, though gaps in nutritional supplementation, sexual activities, and minor complications were noted. All husbands demonstrated positive attitudes, and 98.7% provided high support. Among women, 99.4% reported high satisfaction with their husband's support.Conclusion: Most husbands exhibited good knowledge, positive attitudes, and high support, contributing to improved PFM and maternal satisfaction. Targeted interventions are necessary to address knowledge gaps in specific areas, further enhancing pregnancy outcomes.
A Retrospective Observational Cohort Analysis of Oncology Patients with Febrile Neutropenia in the Emergency Department of a Tertiary Care Hospital in Oman
Authors: Al-Aamri Badar , AL Breiki Aisha , Hazra Darpanarayan , Al-Aamri Talib , Al-Shehi Manar
Published: January 2025

Background:

Febrile neutropenia, a critical concern in chemotherapy-treated oncology patients, demands swift and guideline-based management. This study evaluated guideline adherence and clinical outcomes in the management of febrile neutropenia in oncology patients in the emergency department (ED).

Methods:

This retrospective study was conducted over 4 years. The primary focus was the evaluation of adherence to guidelines for patient disposition and clinical outcomes. Data were retrieved from the hospital’s electronic records, systematically organized, and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 121 febrile neutropenic cases were included in the study. Of these, 52.9% were classified as low risk, with 44.6% having hematological malignancies and 55.4% having solid malignancies. Most patients (89.3%) presented with active cancer, and the mean neutrophil count was 0.18. High-risk patients exhibited significantly higher rates of positive blood cultures (31.6% vs. 1.6%) and positive urine cultures (20.8% vs. 7.7%). Chest X-rays were positive in 5.5% of low-risk patients and 23.2% of high-risk patients. Fungal infection rates were 1.6% in low-risk patients and 29.8% in high-risk patients. Complications were more frequent in high-risk patients, including sepsis-induced hypotension in 6.3% of low-risk patients and 43.9% of high-risk patients. Deaths occurred in 21.1% of high-risk patients, and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions were 24.6% in the high-risk group, with no ICU admissions in the low-risk group. Binary logistic regression revealed that male patients had a 60% lower risk of guideline discordance than female patients (odds ratio [OR]: 0.400, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.180-0.891, P = 0.025), whereas diabetic patients had a 75% lower risk than nondiabetic patients (OR: 0.254, 95% CI: 0.069–0.934, P = 0.039).

Conclusion:

As expected, high-risk patients demonstrated greater illness severity than low-risk patients, with higher rates of admission, sepsis-induced hypotension, and mortality.
A Retrospective review of Leave against Medical Advice (LAMA) cases in the Emergency Department: Factors and Solutions
Authors: Tikhile Angad , Tyagi Shweta , Mulay Sanjay , Ursekar Rajesh
Published: January 2025

Background:

Leave against medical advice (LAMA) is a constant source of frustration for all emergency physicians irrespective of the setup. These patients have higher healthcare costs and readmission rates and even carry a higher morbidity and mortality. The literature on the subject from India is limited. We conducted this study to find the proportion of patients LAMA from the emergency medicine department (EMD).

Materials and Methods:

The study was conducted at an EMD of a tertiary care hospital attached to a medical college in western Maharashtra with an aim to estimate the incidence of LAMA cases and describe various characteristics of these patients.

Results:

A total of 28,802 patients visited EMD during the study period and 6582 patients (22.8%) left against medical advice. Majority of LAMA patients were male (58.3%) and belonged to the age group of 18–40 (52.9%) years. Maximum patients who left against medical advice belonged to the basic specialties such as internal medicine, general surgery, and orthopedics. Among LAMA patients, majority were discharged between 5 PM and 9 AM (n = 4490; 68.2%). Symptomatic improvement (46.8%) and financial constraints (17.3%) were the reason why majority of patients left against medical advice.

Conclusion:

LAMA remains a significant problem globally. There are very limited data from India on the demography of LAMA patients and reasons for patients choosing to LAMA. Our study provides a few insights into the issue, but large-scale prospective studies are required to plan policies which can help in reducing the LAMA burden.
Diabetes Risk Evaluation Using Indian Diabetes Risk Score among Adults of an Urban Slum in Bengaluru, Karnataka
Authors: Saraswathi S. , Mukhopadhyay Amita , Sumana M. , Debata Ipsita , Panda Prem Sagar
Published: January 2025

Background:

Diabetes typically projects the Iceberg phenomenon, with most cases being hidden. The Indian diabetes risk score (IDRS) by the Madras diabetic research foundation is a validated and useful screening tool that identifies high-risk people in primary care settings. The study aimed to assess the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus among adults in an urban slum in Bengaluru, Karnataka with the Indian diabetic risk score (IDRS).

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was carried out in the community involving adults, aged 18 years and above, in the urban field practice area for 3 months. A pretested questionnaire with the IDRS tool was used for data collection.

Results:

Of 300 participants, 53% were males and 47% were females. The diabetes risk, as per the IDRS scores, was high in 58.2%, moderate in 27.2%, and low in 14.6% of the population. The diabetes risk was associated significantly with gender, age, occupational status, physical activity, abdominal circumference, and family history (P < 0.00001).

Conclusion:

Screening by the IDRS tool showed that the risk of developing diabetes was moderate to high in the study population.
Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Current Trends and Future Directions
Authors: Samajdar Shambo Samrat , Chatterjee Rupak , Mukherjee Shatavisa , Dey Amit , Saboo Bharat , Pal Jyotirmoy , Joshi Shashank , Chatterjee Nandini
Published: January 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a milestone technological advancement that enables computers and machines to simulate human intelligence and problem-solving capabilities. This article serves to give a broad overview of the application of AI in medicine including the current applications and future. AI shows promise in changing the field of medical practice although its practical implications are still in their infancy and need further exploration. However, AI is not without limitations and this article also tries to address them along with suggesting solutions by which AI can advance healthcare for betterment with mass benefit.
Comparative assessment of antioxidant and antiglycation properties of Leucas species
Authors: Pratima H. , Rampur Ashwini , Kodagnur Sandhaya
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

The genus Leucas is an aromatic plant and belongs to the Lamiaceae family. They are rich in secondary metabolites. The benefits of Leucas in curing many ailments such as coughs, colds, diarrhea, diabetes, inflammation, and skin diseases have made it an Ayurvedic component. Hence, the present study aims to evaluate the phytochemical, antioxidant, and antiglycation properties of methanol and aqueous extract from three Leucas species, viz, Leucas aspera Link, Leucas zeylanica (L.) W.T.Aiton, and Leucas longifolia Benth.

METHODS:

Dry powders of the whole part of three species of Leucas were extracted with methanol and aqueous solution. Qualitative analysis of secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, glycosides, terpenoids, and tannins was performed by using standard phytochemical procedures. Total phenol, flavonoid, and alkaloid contents were estimated by spectrophotometric methods. The superoxide radical scavenging activity, 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity, hydrogen peroxide radical scavenging activity, and ferric-reducing power methods are in vitro models. Bovine serum albumin glycation assay was used to evaluate the in vitro antiglycation activity of extracts.

RESULTS:

The highest percentage of extraction yield was observed in the methanolic extract of all Leucas species compared to the aqueous extract. The preliminary phytochemical tests reveal the presence of various bioactive secondary metabolites such as phenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids, and glycosides. These extracts show that L. aspera has high DPPH activity, superoxide radical scavenging activity, hydrogen peroxide radical scavenging activity, and ferric-reducing antioxidant power compared to L. zeylanica and L. longifolia. The methanolic and aqueous extract of L. aspera exhibited more significant inhibitory (96.70 ± 1.78 and 90.33 ± 1.65%) effects on advanced glycation end products formation in bovine serum albumin glycation systems compared to standard aminoguanidine (99.45 ± 1.37%) than L. zeylanica and L. longifolia. The methanol extract of L. aspera is rich in phenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids and has strong antiglycation and antioxidant properties.

CONCLUSION:

The strong antiglycation and antioxidant activity of all three Leucas species suggests its possible role in combating diseases associated with diabetic complications and oxidative stress.
Pharmacognostical and phytochemical studies of Eulophia dabia (D. Don) Hochr: A folklore medicine
Authors: Garg Ayush Kumar , Adlakha Manoj , Purvia Rajendra Prasad , Singh Chandan , Chouhan Preeti
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

Medicinal plants have been used in traditional systems of medicine since ancient times. In India, many plants use the common name “Salam mishri,” which creates huge controversy and confusion among the plants. But among them, Dactylorhiza incarnata subsp. Incarnate, Eulophia dabia (E. dabia) (D. Don) Hochr. and Dactylorhiza hatagirea (D. Don) are considered Salam mishri by several local ethnic groups and villagers, as they exhibit the same medicinal properties. E. dabia (D. Don) Hochr. is also known by several vernacular names such as Munjatak (Sanskrit), Salam mishri (Hindi), etc. It is extensively used traditionally to enhance the body’s strength and ability.

METHODS:

Various methods, including microscopic, macroscopic, and physico-phytochemical methods, were applied to determine the diagnostic features for the standardization and identification of E. dabia using the guidelines for drug development of Ayurved formulations given by CCRAS.

RESULTS:

Preliminary physicochemical analysis revealed a loss on drying of 4.84% w/w, pH of 5.16, alcohol-soluble extractive value of 43.56% w/w), and water-soluble extractive value of 63.05% w/w. The total ash content was 6.3% w/w, with acid-insoluble ash at 2.03% w/w for the rhizome of E. dabia. Powder microscopy of the rhizome revealed the presence of stone cells, starch grains, parenchyma cells, cork cells, and xylem vessels. Thin-layer chromatography and high-performance thin-layer chromatography analysis showed the presence of important phytoconstituents in the methanolic extract of the rhizome.

CONCLUSION:

The data generated from this study would be helpful in the authentication of this medicinal plant. These pharmacognostic and preliminary phytochemical observations can be considered future references in further studies.