bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The contribution of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to financial performance of Stanbic bank (Uganda)
Authors:   ,   Uganda Martyrs University, Katamba John Anthony
Published: January 2025

The study investigated the contribution of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on financial performance of Stanbic Bank Uganda Ltd. The study considered a case study of Stanbic bank Nakasero (Umoja) Head Office Branch because being a head office it is the Centre of all bank activities including CSR. Financial performance was measured by amount of deposits, growth of loan volume and financial profitability of the bank. Although CSR is a hot topic in Uganda and Stanbic bank practices it, no detailed study had been conducted to ascertain whether Stanbic bank indeed derives financial benefits there from. The study was conducted through a descriptive case study research design and both descriptive statistics and correlation tests were conducted to establish the relationship between CSR and the different elements of financial performance. The study was based on a sample size of 170 employees from Stanbic bank Nakasero (Umoja) Head Office Branch. A structured questionnaire and interview guide were used to obtain data. The findings revealed that, First, CSR contributes positively to amount of deposits in Stanbic Bank Uganda. Secondly, CSR has a positive significant though weak contribution to growth of loan volume in Stanbic bank. Thirdly, CSR contributes positively to the bank’s financial profitability. On a whole, Stanbic bank’s involvement in CSR practices has a positive contribution to its financial performance. It concluded that other commercial banks should invest more in CSR activities since it does not only benefit the community but also the organisation that does it. Other areas for further study were also highlighted.
Tuberculose na população privada de liberdade no Estado do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Silva Ana Cristina de Oliveira e , Ferreira Fernanda Letícia dos Santos , Oliveira Priscila Marques do Nascimento
Published: January 2025

O objetivo foi caracterizar o perfil epidemiológico dos casos notificados de Tuberculose na População Privada de Liberdade e suas características sociodemográficas, epidemiológicas e operacionais, no estado do Rio de Janeiro, nos anos de 2019 a 2023. Trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico descritivo do tipo ecológico dos casos de tuberculose em pessoas privadas de liberdade no estado do Rio de Janeiro, nos anos de 2019 a 2023. Foram notificados no período de 2019 a 2023 um total de 9.907 casos de tuberculose na população privada de liberdade no ERJ. Observou-se uma maior prevalência do sexo masculino em todos os anos, sendo mais de 98% dos casos notificados. Houve um predomínio da raça parda nos casos notificados em todos os anos, com escolaridade entre 5ª e 8ª série incompleta do ensino fundamental em sua maioria. Foi possível verificar aumento no percentual de cura, além de melhora na diminuição das interrupções de tratamento. Tais informações são relevantes para direcionar políticas de saúde pública e estratégias de intervenção que visam a redução da incidência e do impacto da tuberculose no país.
PREVALENSI FAKTOR PENYEBAB STUNTING PADA BALITA USIA 1-5 TAHUN DI WILAYAH KERJA PUSKESMAS MPUNDA TAHUN 2024
Authors: Putri Maharani  , Rostinah  , Jumriani
Published: January 2025

Stunting menjadi masalah gizi yang utama yang sedang dihadapi pada balita yang bisa menyebabkan perkembangan anak terganggu, dengan timbulnya dampak negatif akibat stunting seperti penurunan intelektual, rentan terhadap penyakit tidak menular, penurunan produktivitas hingga dapat menyebabkan kemiskinan dan dapat memunculkan risiko dengan melahirkan bayi dengan berat badan rendah. Tujuannya untuk mengetahui tentang prevalensi faktor penyebab stunting pada balita usia 1-5 tahun di wilayah kerja puskesmas mpunda tahun 2024. Desain Penelitian yang digunakan adalah analitik kuantititaf dengan metode yang digunakan survey kepada responden untuk mengetahuifaktor penyebab stunting pada balita usia 1-5 tahun. populasi dalam penelitian ini sebanyak 71 orang, tehnik sampling yang digunakan adalah simple random sampling. Sebagian besar ibu berdasarkan pola asuh pemberian makan di kategorikan baik sebanyak 39 reesponden (54%), sebagian besar ibu berdasarkan pendidikan  kelompok SMA sebanyak 33 responden (46%), sebagian besar ibu memiliki tingkat ekonomi yang rendah sebanyak 48 responden (68%).
Perencanaan Sumber Daya Pendidik dan Tenaga Kependidikan di MTs. Tarbiyatul Huda
Authors: Purnamasari Intan , Mubarok M. Fadhil Shobirin , M. M. Goris Hoirul , Al-Fa’is Zidan Kholid , Hidayat Rofiq
Published: January 2025

The planning of educators and educational staff is a critical aspect in efforts to improve the quality of education at various levels, including at MTs Tarbiyatul Huda, Desa Jenggawah. This study aims to analyze the factors influencing HR planning, the processes carried out, and the planning system implemented at the school. The research employs a qualitative descriptive method, with data collection techniques including interviews, direct observation, and document studies. The findings show that HR planning at MTs Tarbiyatul Huda is influenced by academic needs, the competencies of educators and educational staff, financial support, government policies, technological changes, and collaboration between the school and its foundation. The HR planning process includes needs analysis, recruitment, continuous training, placement, and performance evaluation. Additionally, a competency-based and data-driven planning system is utilized to ensure the availability of qualified educators and staff. This article underscores the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration and long-term HR development to sustain the quality of education. These findings are expected to serve as a reference for HR planning in similar educational institutions.
Dampak Latar Belakang Sosial Ekonomi Terhadap Akses Pendidikan di SDN 006 Sangatta Utara
Authors: Akmaliah Qatrunnada Jinan , Yasin Muhammad
Published: January 2025

Socioeconomic background can affect students' ability to access education, both in terms of transportation and the provision of learning supplies. This study aims to identify the impact of family socioeconomic background on access to education at SDN 006 Sangatta Utara. This study uses a qualitative method with a case study approach, which involves interviews with homeroom teachers and direct observation at school. Data collected through interviews with teachers. The results of the study show that the socio-economic condition of the family does not provide a significant obstacle to students' access to education at SDN 006 Sangatta Utara. Most students have adequate transportation facilities, so no student has to walk to get to school. In addition, the majority of students' parents have better-than-average economic conditions, which allows them to meet their children's school supplies needs without any constraints. This is more due to children's behavioral factors than the family's economic limitations
Kritik Terhadap Struktur Kekuasaan dalam Pendidikan Islam Di Sekolah MI Hajar Abyadl
Authors: Kalsum Umi , Yasin Muhammad
Published: January 2025

The power structure in Islamic education at MI Hajar Abyadl plays an important role in influencing teachers' involvement in educational decision-making. The focus of this research is to understand the power structure in MI Hajar Abyadl and identify power practices that are considered unfair or discriminatory. The research method used is a qualitative approach with semi-structured interview techniques. The research findings reveal that the power structure in MI Hajar Abyadl is organized in a clear hierarchy, with the school principal at the center of decision-making and teachers playing a role in implementing these policies. However, there are several discrepancies in the policy implementation that may impact educational fairness. One example is the exercise of power deemed unfair or discriminatory, such as differences in access to facilities and learning opportunities between students from wealthy and less privileged families. This can lead to inequality, hindering students' potential development. On the other hand, while there are indications of discriminatory practices, the existing policies are insufficient to address these imbalances comprehensively. As a solution, it is necessary to evaluate the current structure and policies to create a more equitable education system for all students.
Strategi Lazismu Kota Medan dalam Penyebaran Zakat, Infaq, dan Sedekah
Authors: Zein Gilang Hardian , Hasibuan Wildan Ansori , Dongoran Rita Ul-Hanifah , Nasution Muhammad Asnawi
Published: January 2025

Zakat, Infaq and Alms (ZIS) is an important instrument in Islam for the redistribution of wealth to achieve social welfare. However, its management in Medan City still faces big challenges. This research uses a qualitative approach based on literature studies to explore the ZIS collection and distribution strategy by Lazismu in Medan City. Analysis shows that strategies such as CSR programs, small-scale philanthropy, and the use of social media and digital applications have increased the effectiveness of ZIS management. The findings also highlight the role of technology in increasing the number of muzakki by up to 25% and expanding distribution reach. Main obstacles such as the lack of valid mustahik data and the digital divide require solutions based on technological innovation and collaboration between institutions. This research recommends strengthening digital infrastructure and public education to support the optimization of ZIS management by Lazismu in the city of Medan. Thus, a sustainable strategy can increase the role of ZIS in economic empowerment and community welfare.
Prinsip - Prinsip Dasar Keluarga Dalam Membentuk Karakter Anak
Authors: Yasin Muhammad , Habibah Nor
Published: January 2025

The main character's education is carried out in the family. Because the family is a role model for children to be able to develop their potential and build their character, the role of the family is very important to shape the child's character to be good or bad. The author describes the role of the family in shaping the character of children, using descriptive analysis so as to know the principles of education in the family. The conclusion of this research is that the process of building character in the family can be done in various ways, one of which is through habituation, giving good examples, advice, punishment and motivating children. The achievement of the character education process in the family can be maximized if the children, parents and the environment are mutually sustainable.
Penerapan Metode Diskusi pada Mata Pelajaran PAI Terhadap Motivasi Belajar Siswa
Authors: Syafi'i Muhammad Imam , Jumaidah Jumaidah
Published: January 2025

Student motivation has little effect on students' understanding of Islamic religious education subject matter and the success rate of teachers' teaching. Likewise with the accuracy of the selection of learning methods used by the teacher. This study aims to increase student motivation by applying the discussion method to Islamic religious education learning materials. The method used in this research is a class action research method. The location of the research was conducted at DDI North Sangatta Islamic Middle School. The results showed a significant increase after the action was taken with an average daily score of 88.6, a daily test score of 86.6, a practice score of 84.5, and a portfolio score of 87.7. This improvement is inseparable from changes in the methods used in the learning process, where previously the teacher's actions used the lecture method.
PENINGKATAN LITERASI MEMBACA DAN MENULIS PADA ANAK-ANAK SEKOLAH DASAR DI LINGKUNGAN SENTANI JAYAPURA
Authors: Sari Rita
Published: January 2025

Reading is a very important part of education to produce graduates of the nation's children who are intelligent and have good character in the educational, community and family environment. Education is guided by the 1945 Constitution Article 31 (Amendment IV) Paragraph 1 which states that "every citizen has the right to receive teaching". The research was conducted with the aim that elementary school children who were not fluent in reading due to the impact of Covid which resulted in children studying at home or via online also have reading literacy skills. Literacy activities also help children recognize sounds, letters and can read syllables. The research method used is quantitative research using data collection tools in the form of instruments. This research was conducted in the even semester at the Yahim Sentani residential area, Jayapura. The research sample was children aged 6-8 years in the neighborhood around Yahim's housing estate who were not yet fluent in reading. The results of the study show that reading literacy can improve children's reading and writing abilities by using methods and visual aids in the form of flash cards with the highest result being 80% and the lowest being 65%.
MENINGKATKAN HASIL BELAJAR IPS MENGGUNAKAN MODEL PEMBELAJARAN BERBASIS MASALAH PADA SISWA KELAS IV SD KATOLIK 04 FRATER DON BOSCO TOMOHON
Authors: Nusalawo Robert , Papendang Jesterlin Tristianti
Published: January 2025

The implementation of this research as a means to see the ability of fourth grade students of Catholic Elementary School 04 Frater Don Bosco Tomohon in the subject of Social Studies. Based on the results of the researcher's observation, first this is due to the lack of student involvement in problem solving activities and even student enthusiasm in social studies subjects. Second, students only memorize and not think critically about social studies lessons, this is due to the lack of teacher explanation of the material taught and the teacher only gives assignments. This research was conducted with reference to the research method developed by Kemmis and Mc Taggart in Zainal Aqib (2006:31). The implementation of the research in Class IV students of Catholic Elementary School 04 Frater Don Bosco Tomohon, while the students present in this study amounted to 23 male and female students. This data was collected through observation and analysis of the results of class IV student assessment sheets. Based on student assessment sheets in the second cycle only 3 students did not reach the KKM (75), a very significant increase compared to the first cycle there were 16 students who had not reached the KKM (75). The completeness of learning outcomes of grade IV students of Catholic Elementary School 04 Frater Don Bosco Tomohon in the second cycle reached 84.78%, a significant increase compared to the learning completeness rate in the first cycle which only reached 66.95%. The researcher hopes that teachers can apply problem-based learning models at school, because problem-based learning models have succeeded in improving student learning outcomes.
DAMPAK KONDISI EKONOMI KELUARGA TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR MAHASISWA STKIP KRISTEN WAMENA
Authors: Mebri Beatrix , Wangguway Yustinus
Published: January 2025

Pendidikan masih menjadi kebutuhan penting semua anak sehingga perlu ada dukungan keuangan yang memadai dari orang tua karena setiap tahun biaya pendidikan dari tingkat dasar sampai perguruan tinggi meningkat. Isu tersebut dibahas dalam penelitian ini dengan tujuan untuk mengetahui dampak dari kondisi ekonomi keluarga atau latar belakang keuangan orang tua terhadap hasil belajar mahasiswa di STKIP Kristen Wamena. Metode penelitian ini deskriptif dengan jenis pendekatan kualitatif. Sumber data diperoleh dari mahasiswa yang mengambil mata kuliah Aplikasi Komputer 2, instrumen penelitian menggunakan kuesioner. Data-data tersebut selanjutnya diolah menjadi suatu catatan. Teknik analisis data pada penelitian ini yaitu reduksi data, editing, display data dan penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil dari penelitian ini ialah sumber dana untuk kuliah, pekerjaan orang tua atau wali, penghasilan orang tua atau wali, asset atau kekayaan orang tua, dan jenis lantai di rumah keluarga turut beperan dalam prestasi mahasiswa. Temuan ini menekankan pentingnya peran institusi pendidikan, pemerintah dan orang tua dalam memberikan dukungan finansial dan program beasiswa bagi mahasiswa yang kurang mampu. Dengan adanya dukungan yang memadai, diharapkan mahasiswa dapat lebih fokus pada studi mereka dan meningkatkan hasil belajar.
PENERAPAN METODE GASING TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR SISWA PADA KONSEP PERKALIAN
Authors: Rahayu Nurita Angesti , Manuel Gerson
Published: January 2025

Students tend to perceive mathematics as a difficult and unenjoyable subject. Students' negative responses to the process of learning mathematics can be changed by implementing a fun and enjoyable learning process. In addition to students' responses becoming positive, it is also expected that students' learning achievements will improve. This research aimed to describe students' responses during the process of teaching and learning using the GASING method. Furthermore, this research is also conducted to determine the difference in students' learning achievements before and after using the GASING method in the concept of multiplication. This study was conducted at Koinonia Wamena Elementary School with a total of 215 students, and the research sample consisted of 38 students. Data collection in the research was obtained from observations and tests. Researchers conducted observations during the teaching and learning process to observe students' responses. Tests were conducted by researchers to assess students' learning achievements. In analyzing the data, researchers used non-parametric statistics (Mann-Whitney) through the SPSS program. There were several results that have been found in this study: 1) Students' responses during learning with the GASING method are: a) Happy and enthusiastic, b) Enthusiastic, c) Paying careful attention, d) Quick in solving problems, e) Feeling challenged to solve problems, f) Wanting to continuously try solving problems, g) Interested in answering questions. 2) No significant difference was found in students' learning achievement between using the GASING method and not using the GASING method in the concept of multiplication.
Peningkatan Kemampuan Operasi Hitung Menggunakan Model Pembelajaran Jigsaw Pada Siswa Kelas 4 Sekolah Dasar Santo Agustinus Waga-Waga di Wamena
Authors: Nusalawo Robert , Ambarita Yogi Marulitua
Published: January 2025

ABSTRAK
         Tujuan penelitian ini yaitu untuk melihat pengaruh model pembelajaran jigsaw dan meningkatkan kemampuan operasi hitung pada siswa kelas 4 Sekolah Dasar Santo Agustinus Waga-waga di wamena. Berdasarkan hasil observasi peneliti menemukan masalah mendasar yaitu siswa belum mampu menyusun angka satuan, puluhan, ratusan bahkan ribuan, dalam operaasi penjumlahan dan pengurangan bersususn. Masalah ini membuat siswa sulit menghitung operasi penjumlahan dengan aturan simpan dan pengurangan dengan aturan pinjam. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini yaitu metode kolaboratif dengan pendekatan kuantitatif dan kualitatif. Pendekatan kuantitatif untuk menghitung kemampuan hasi kemampuan belajar siswa dan pendekatan kualitatif untuk melihat bagaimana peningkatan dan pengaruh model pembelajaran jigsaw. Kemampuan operasi hitung dasar penjumlahan dan pengurangan siswa kelas 4 SD St. Agustinus Waga-Waga mengalami peningkatan setelah menerapkan model pembelajarn jigsaw sebesar 22,5%, pre-tets sebelum menerapkan model pembelajaran jigsaw yaitu 37,5% dan post-tes setelah menerapkan model pembelajaran jigsaw yaitu 60%. Peningkatan kemampuan siswa dilihat juga dari jumlah siswa yang mencapai nilai KKM 67%, maka  penggunaan model pembelajaran jigsaw mempunyai dampak/pengaruh yang sangat signifikan terhadap siswa kelas 4 SD St. Agustinus Waga-Waga.
La identidad indígena: procesos de construcción de la identidad de las comunidades indígenas americanas
Authors: Colet Aizpún Federico
Published: January 2025

La identidad indígena se ha construido a lo largo de la historia desde la conquista, influyendo factores como la colonización, la formación de los estados nacionales y la globalización. Inicialmente se les categorizó como "salvajes" para justificar su sometimiento. Más tarde emergieron como resistencia reclamando territorio y derechos. Aunque se les quiso asimilar, también se les marginó. El panindigenismo buscó unidad más allá de fronteras. Hoy amenazas como el turismo exotizan pero también aportan recursos. La identidad es multidimensional e influyen múltiples actores como los propios indígenas y el Estado en cada época según sus intereses.
Classification of vehicle routing problem
Authors: Injac Zoran , Drašković Danislav
Published: January 2025

The vehicle routing problem is a general name for a whole set of problems in which a group of vehicles located in a depot needs to visit all customers with the condition that only one vehicle visits each customer and that all vehicles return to the depot. Vehicle routing problems are a generalization of the traveling salesman problem. The purpose of present survey in the field of vehicle routing problem (VRP) is to classify different well known variants of VRP according to the type of objects with previously defined system performance was applied . These variants include a whole class of problems where a set of routes for a car fleet located in one or more depots should be determined for some geographically distant nodes or customers, at that, the purpose of routing is the optimization of the series of customers requests (number of vehicles, distance traveled, time spent in vehicles or user waiting time).
From histology to macroscale function in the human amygdala
Authors: Auer Hans , Cabalo Donna Gift , Rodriguez-Cruces Raul , Benkarim Oualid , Paquola Casey , DeKraker Jordan , Wang Yezhou , Valk Sofie , Bernhardt Boris C , Royer Jessica
Published: January 2025

The amygdala is a subcortical region in the mesiotemporal lobe that plays a key role in emotional and sensory functions. Conventional neuroimaging experiments treat this structure as a single, uniform entity, but there is ample histological evidence for subregional heterogeneity in microstructure and function. The current study characterized subregional structure-function coupling in the human amygdala, integrating
post mortem
histology and
in vivo
MRI at ultrahigh fields. Core to our work was a novel neuroinformatics approach that leveraged multiscale texture analysis as well as non-linear dimensionality reduction techniques to identify salient dimensions of microstructural variation in a 3D
post mortem
histological reconstruction of the human amygdala. We observed two axes of subregional variation in this region, describing inferior-superior as well as medio-lateral trends in microstructural differentiation that in part recapitulated established atlases of amygdala subnuclei. Translating our approach to
in vivo
MRI data acquired at 7 Tesla, we could demonstrate generalizability of these spatial trends across 10 healthy adults. We then cross-referenced microstructural axes with functional blood-oxygen-level dependent (BOLD) signal analysis obtained during task-free conditions, and revealed a close association of structural axes with macroscale functional network embedding, notably the temporo-limbic, default mode, and sensory-motor networks. Our novel multiscale approach consolidates descriptions of amygdala anatomy and function obtained from histological and
in vivo
imaging techniques.
Simulation-based survey of TMEM16 family reveals that robust lipid scrambling requires an open groove
Authors: Stephens Christina A , van Hilten Niek , Zheng Lisa , Grabe Michael
Published: January 2025

Biological membranes are complex and dynamic structures with different populations of lipids in their inner and outer leaflets. The Ca
2+
-activated TMEM16 family of membrane proteins plays an important role in collapsing this asymmetric lipid distribution by spontaneously, and bidirectionally, scrambling phospholipids between the two leaflets, which can initiate signaling and alter the physical properties of the membrane. While evidence shows that lipid scrambling can occur via an open hydrophilic pathway (“groove”) that spans the membrane, it remains unclear if all family members facilitate lipid movement in this manner. Here we present a comprehensive computational study of lipid scrambling by all TMEM16 members with experimentally solved structures. We performed coarse-grained molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of 27 structures from five different family members solved under activating and non-activating conditions, and we captured over 700 scrambling events in aggregate. This enabled us to directly compare scrambling rates, mechanisms, and protein-lipid interactions for fungal and mammalian TMEM16s, in both open (Ca
2+
-bound) and closed (Ca
2+
-free) conformations with statistical rigor. We show that all TMEM16 structures thin the membrane and that the majority of (>90%) scrambling occurs at the groove only when TM4 and TM6 have sufficiently separated. Surprisingly, we also observed 60 scrambling events that occurred outside the canonical groove, over 90% of which took place at the dimer-dimer interface in mammalian TMEM16s. This new site suggests an alternative mechanism for lipid scrambling in the absence of an open groove.
Combined forces of hydrostatic pressure and actin polymerization drive endothelial tip cell migration and sprouting angiogenesis
Authors: Kondrychyn Igor , He Liqun , Wint Haymar , Betsholtz Christer , Phng Li-Kun
Published: January 2025

Cell migration is a key process in the shaping and formation of tissues. During sprouting angiogenesis, endothelial tip cells invade avascular tissues by generating actomyosin-dependent forces that drive cell migration and vascular expansion. Surprisingly, ECs can still invade if actin polymerization is inhibited. In this study, we show that endothelial tip cells employ an alternative mechanism of cell migration that is dependent on Aquaporin (Aqp)-mediated water inflow and increase in hydrostatic pressure. In the zebrafish, ECs express
aqp1a.1
and
aqp8a.1
in newly formed vascular sprouts in a VEGFR2-dependent manner. Aqp1a.1 and Aqp8a.1 loss-of-function studies show an impairment in intersegmental vessels formation because of a decreased capacity of tip cells to increase their cytoplasmic volume and generate membrane protrusions, leading to delayed tip cell emergence from the dorsal aorta and slower migration. Further inhibition of actin polymerization resulted in a greater decrease in sprouting angiogenesis, indicating that ECs employ two mechanisms for robust cell migration
in vivo
. Our study thus highlights an important role of hydrostatic pressure in tissue morphogenesis.
Rapid Differential Detection of Selected Mycobacterial Species from Faecal Samples of Cattle and Buffaloes by Using In-house Designed Multiplex PCR, IS900 PCR and TaqMan Real-time PCR
Authors: Brahma Derhasar , Narang Deepti , Chandra Mudit , Singh Sikh Tejinder , Sidhu Gursher Singh
Published: January 2025

Aim: Mycobacterial infections due to Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis (MAP) (Paratuberculosis), and M. bovis (Tuberculosis) in dairy animals are potential public health risk that needs to be diagnosí at the earliest for effective prevention. In addition, M. smegmatis (nontuberculous mycobacteria) is a saprophytic mycobactera that may interfere with the diagnosis of mycobacterial infection besides causing opportunistic infections. This study aims at rapid differential detection of these organisms from faecal samples of cattle and buffaloes using in-house designed multiplex PCR, besides other techniques for aiding in the accuracy of diagnosis.
Methodology: Faecal samples (n=268) were collected per-rectum from suspected animals and screened by Ziehl-Neelsen staining and graded as low, medium and high shedders; Then faecal culture in Middlebrook 7H11 media for isolation of MAP from faecal samples of medium to high shedders (n=150). All the samples were subjected to in-house designed multiplex PCR targeting MAP, M. bovis and M. smegmatis; besides using IS900 conventional PCR and TaqMan real-time PCR for detection of MAP.
Results: A total of 237 (88.43%) samples were found to be positive for Acid-fast bacilli, out of which 49 (20.68%), 106 (44.73%) and 82 (34.60%) samples were from low, medium and high shedders respectively. Only 4 (2.67%) samples were culture positive for MAP. Whereas, multiplex PCR detected 16 (5.97%) faecal samples as positive for MAP, and none were positive for M. bovis and M. smegmatis. However, IS900 conventional PCR and IS900 TaqMan real-time PCR detected 19 (7.09%) and 29 (10.82%) faecal samples as positive for MAP respectively.
Conclusion: Thus, the in-house multiplex PCR can be used for screening mycobacterial infections and also for the rapid detection of MAP like the IS900 PCR. After all, a large proportion of the Acid-fast bacilli in the faecal samples may be from other mycobacteria or non-mycobacterial Acid-fast bacilli that need to be studied further.
Minimization of Energy Consumption Through Improving Purity of Hydrogen By-Product and Adding Heat Exchanger on Acetaldehyde Production Process
Authors: Fawwaz Abdurrahman , Nugraha Akbar Putra Ajie , Al Rasyid Muhammad Putra , Muhammad Refah Hakam
Published: January 2025

Improving energy efficiency in the acetaldehyde production process is one of the strategic steps to optimize operations and support the sustainability of the chemical industry. This study aims to analyze the impact of adding a heat exchanger and increasing the mass rate of the feed absorber (water) on energy efficiency and hydrogen purity, as a by-product. Simulations were conducted with thermodynamic modeling-based software to compare the unmodified process system with the modified system. The addition of a heat exchanger was designed to minimize heat energy loss in the system by recycling heat energy from the process stream. Meanwhile, increasing the mass rate of the feed absorber aims to increase the capacity of the water absorber in separating impurity compounds, thereby producing hydrogen with higher purity. Simulation results show that the system modified with the heat exchanger successfully reduces the total energy demand by 1,695,040.81 kJ/h. In addition, increasing the mass rate of the absorber feed significantly improves the hydrogen purity to reach a more optimal level for advanced applications. In conclusion, the combination of adding a heat exchanger and adjusting the mass rate of the feed absorber not only improves energy efficiency, but also provides added value in the form of hydrogen with higher purity. This study provides practical guidance for the development of a more efficient and environmentally friendly acetaldehyde production technology. Copyright © 2025 by Authors, Published by Universitas Diponegoro and BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Biosimilar Uptake in Medicare Advantage vs Traditional Medicare
Authors: Kozlowski Steven , Kwist Andrew , McEvoy Rowan , Koirala Nirabh , Chillarige Yoganand , Kelman Jeffrey A. , Graham David J.
Published: December 2023

This cross-sectional study uses Traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage claims data to evaluate uptake of biosimilars relative to their reference products.
Strategies for Regulating Disruptive Medical Technologies
Authors: Gottlieb Scott
Published: December 2023

This JAMA Forum discusses 3 regulatory lessons from the US Food and Drug Administration that could be used for regulating new medical devices and technologies, such as those that include artificial intelligence.
Axial Elongation Trajectories in Chinese Children and Adults With High Myopia
Authors: Zhang Shiran , Chen Yanping , Li Zhixi , Wang Wei , Xuan Meng , Zhang Jian , Hu Yin , Chen Yanxian , Xiao Ou , Yin Qiuxia , Zheng Yingfeng , He Mingguang , Han Xiaotong
Published: December 2023

Importance

Understanding the long-term axial elongation trajectory in high myopia is important to prevent blindness.

Objective

To evaluate axial elongation trajectories and related visual outcomes in children and adults with high myopia.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this cohort study, participants in the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Centre–Brien Holden Vision Institute high myopia cohort were followed up every other year for 8 years. Participants with axial length measurements at baseline (2011 or 2012) and at least 1 follow-up visit were included. Participants were grouped according to baseline age as children and adolescents (7 to <18 years), young adults (18 to <40 years), and older adults (≥40 to 70 years). Data were analyzed from November 1, 2022, to June 1, 2023.

Exposure

High myopia (spherical power ≤−6.00 diopters).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Longitudinal axial elongation trajectories were identified by cluster analysis. Axial elongation rates were calculated by linear mixed-effects models. A 2-sided P < .05 was defined as statistically significant.

Results

A total of 793 participants (median [range] age, 17.8 [6.8-69.7] years; 418 females [52.7%]) and 1586 eyes were included in the analyses. Mean axial elongation rates were 0.46 mm/y (95% CI, 0.44-0.48 mm/y) for children and adolescents, 0.07 mm/y (95% CI, 0.06-0.09 mm/y) for young adults, and 0.13 mm/y (95% CI, 0.07-0.19 mm/y) for older adults. Cluster analysis identified 3 axial elongation trajectories, with the stable, moderate, and rapid progression trajectories having mean axial elongation rates of 0.02 mm/y (95% CI, 0.01-0.02 mm/y), 0.12 mm/y (95% CI, 0.11-0.13 mm/y), and 0.38 mm/y (95% CI, 0.35-0.42 mm/y), respectively. At 8 years of follow-up, compared with the stable progression trajectory, the rapid progression trajectory was associated with a 6.92 times higher risk of developing pathological myopic macular degeneration (defined as diffuse or patchy chorioretinal atrophy or macular atrophy; odds ratio, 6.92 [95% CI, 1.07-44.60]; P = .04), and it was associated with a 0.032 logMAR decrease in best-corrected visual acuity (β = 0.032 [95% CI, 0.001-0.063]; P = .04).

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this 8-year follow-up study suggest that axial length in high myopia continues to increase from childhood to late adulthood following 3 distinct trajectories. At 8 years of follow-up, the rapid progression trajectory was associated with a higher risk of developing pathological myopic macular degeneration and poorer best-corrected visual acuity compared with the stable progression trajectory. These distinct axial elongation trajectories could prove valuable for early identification and intervention for high-risk individuals.
Oral Cavity Cancer Surgical and Nodal Management
Authors: Eskander Antoine , Dziegielewski Peter T. , Patel Mihir R. , Jethwa Ashok R. , Pai Prathamesh S. , Silver Natalie L. , Sajisevi Mirabelle , Sanabria Alvaro , Doweck Ilana , Khariwala Samir S. , St. John Maie
Published: December 2023

Importance

Lymph node metastases from oral cavity cancers are seen frequently, and there is still inconsistency, and occasional controversies, regarding the surgical management of the neck in patients with oral cancer. This review is intended to offer a surgically focused discussion of the current recommendations regarding management of the neck, focusing on the indications and extent of dissection required in patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma while balancing surgical risk and oncologic outcome.

Observations

The surgical management of the neck for oral cavity cancer has been robustly studied, as evidenced by substantial existing literature surrounding the topic. Prior published investigations have provided a sound foundation on which data-driven treatment algorithms can generally be recommended.

Conclusions

Existing literature suggests that patients with oral cavity cancer should be fully staged preoperatively, and most patients should receive a neck dissection even when clinically N0. Quality standards supported by the literature include separation of each level during specimen handling and lymph node yield of 18 or more nodes. Sentinel lymph node biopsy can be considered in select tumors and within a well-trained multidisciplinary team.
Emancipatory Pragmatics
Authors: Saft Scott
Published: December 2023

Emancipatory Pragmatics focuses on the description of linguistic practices in languages other than Euro‐American majority languages in an effort to integrate diverse voices into the field of pragmatics. Emancipatory Pragmatics recognizes the contributions of well‐known theoretical perspectives such as Grice's theory of conversational implicature, speech act theory, politeness theory, and relevance theory, but it also seeks to establish theories of linguistic practice not based primarily on English and other Euro‐American languages. As an example, this entry describes current work in Emancipatory Pragmatics that utilizes
ba‐
theory as an approach to context. Using pronoun usage in Japanese, Hawaiian, and English as an example, the entry illustrates how such an approach can inform understanding of the dialogic processes through which categorical distinctions emerge in social interaction.
Urea Electrosynthesis Accelerated by Theoretical Simulations
Authors: Liu Junxian , Guo Xiangyu , Frauenheim Thomas , Gu Yuantong , Kou Liangzhi
Published: December 2023

Urea is not only a primary fertilizer in modern agriculture but also a crucial raw material for the chemical industry. In the past hundred years, the prevailing industrial synthesis of urea heavily relies on the Bosch–Meiser process to couple NH3 and CO2 under harsh conditions, resulting in high carbon emissions and energy consumption. The conversion of carbon‐ and nitrogen‐containing species into urea through electrochemical reactions under ambient conditions represents a sustainable strategy. Despite the increasing reports on urea electrosynthesis, a comprehensive review that delves into a profound, atomic‐level comprehension of the fundamental reaction mechanisms is currently absent. In this Perspective, recent advancements in electrochemical urea synthesis from CO2/CO and various nitrogenous species (i.e., N2, NOx−, and NO) under ambient conditions are presented, with special emphasis on theoretical understanding of the C─N coupling reaction mechanisms. Several key strategies to facilitate the C─N coupling are then pinpointed, which not only enhance their applicability in practical experiments but also highlight the significant progress achieved in this field. At the end, the major obstacles and potential opportunities in advancing urea electrosynthesis accelerated by theoretical simulations and in situ techniques are discussed. This review is hoped to act as a roadmap to ignite fresh insights and inspiration for the development of electrocatalytic urea synthesis.
Self‐Assembled 3D N/P/S‐Tridoped Carbon Nanoflower with Highly Branched Carbon Nanotubes as Efficient Bifunctional Oxygen Electrocatalyst Toward High‐Performance Rechargeable Zn‐Air Batteries
Authors: Chang Hui , Liu Xinyu , Zhao Shan , Liu Zonglin , Lv Ruitao , Zhang Qianyu , Yi Ting‐Feng
Published: December 2023

Heteroatom doping and 3D nanostructures with large specific surface area and hierarchical porous structure can synergically improve oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In this study, the 3D N/P/S‐tridoped nanoflower with highly branched carbon nanotubes bifunctional catalyst (Co/SP‐NC) is prepared by a simple self‐assembly pyrolysis method. The powerful driving force of coordination interaction of ammonium ion can promote the self‐assembly of 2D ZnCo‐ZIF nanosheets into 3D ZnCo/S‐ZIF nanoflowers at room temperature stirring. The 3D ZnCo/S‐ZIF nanoflower surface is driven by sodium hypophosphite to form highly branched carbon nanotubes during the pyrolysis process. Moreover, Density functional theory (DFT) calculations also confirm that the simultaneous introduction of N/P/S can promote the redistribution of electron density at the catalyst interface. The proper P‐doping not only enhances the electronic conductivity of the substrate, but also facilitates the charge transfer in the OER/ORR process. Therefore, Co/SP‐NC cathode assembled zinc‐air batteries (ZABs) have a higher power density (187 mW cm−2), a larger specific capacity (801 mAh gZn−1) and excellent cycle stability compared to Pt/C‐RuO2 assembled ZABs. This work will pave the way to regulate the components interactions by designing 3D hierarchical porous structures.
Ultrafast Negative Capacitance Transition for 2D Ferroelectric MoS2/Graphene Transistor
Authors: Daw Debottam , Bouzid Houcine , Jung Moonyoung , Suh Dongseok , Biswas Chandan , Hee Lee Young
Published: December 2023

Negative capacitance gives rise to subthreshold swing (SS) below the fundamental limit by efficient modulation of surface potential in transistors. While negative‐capacitance transition is reported in polycrystalline Pb(Zr0.2Ti0.8)O3(PZT) and HfZrO2(HZO) thin‐films in few microseconds timescale, low SS is not persistent over a wide range of drain current when used instead of conventional dielectrics. In this work, the clear nano‐second negative transition states in 2D single‐crystal CuInP2S6(CIPS) flakes have been demonstrated by an alternative fast‐transient measurement technique. Further, integrating this ultrafast NC transition with the localized density of states of Dirac contacts and controlled charge transfer in the CIPS/channel (MoS2/graphene) a state‐of‐the‐art device architecture, negative capacitance Dirac source drain field effect transistor (FET) is introduced. This yields an ultralow SS of 4.8 mV dec−1with an average sub‐10 SS across five decades with on‐off ratio exceeding 107, by simultaneous improvement of transport and body factors in monolayer MoS2‐based FET, outperforming all previous reports. This approach could pave the way to achieve ultralow‐SS FETs for future high‐speed and low‐power electronics.
Planar Compound Eye Lens for Enhanced Light Extraction Efficiency in AlGaN‐Based Deep Ultraviolet LEDs
Authors: Tan Qilong , Zhao Jie , Li Qixin , Liu Huan , Dong Bin , He Chenguang , Chen Zhitao , Zhou Wen , Liu Ningyang
Published: December 2023

Total internal reflection prevents photons from escaping deep‐ultraviolet (DUV) LED, resulting in serious energy waste and reduced service life. To lift the limitation of extraction ability of AlGaN‐based DUV LEDs, an inspiration was drawn from biological visual systems with wide field, which have obtained highly optimized features through evolution. By reconfiguring planar compound eye lens (PCEL) on the n‐AlGaN surface utilizing bio‐inspired features acquired from praying mantis, light extraction efficiency (LEE) enhancement over 180% is demonstrated both for transverse electric (TE) and magnetic fields by finite difference‐time domain (FDTD) simulation. Owing to its ultrathin planar structure and compatibility of material, PCEL provides a pathway to improve energy utilization efficiency of DUV‐LED utilizing one‐step nanoimprint.
A Novel Approach to Determine the Treatment Range of Prefabricated Vertical Drains and Cement‐Soil Mixing Piles for Wide and High Embankment on Soft Ground
Authors: Jiang Xin , Hu Jinming , Sun Rong , Fu Yongguo , Gu Hanyan , Zhang Lei , Qiu Yanjun
Published: December 2023

Wide embankments with a width of tens or even hundreds of meters change the settlement distribution mode of soft ground. At the same time, the influence of embankment height on the stability and settlement of soft ground is quite significant. For the wide and high embankments, when the prefabricated vertical drain (PVD) is applied in the middle of the embankment and the cement‐soil mixing pile (CSMP) is implemented on both sides of the embankment, a novel determination approach of the reasonable proportion of the suitable treatment range of the PVD and the CSMP is proposed in this study. Combined with the engineering example of the Sanya Station yard of Hainan East Ring Railway, the Plaxis 2D finite element program is used to carry out the parameter analysis on the different proportions of PVD and CSMP in treatment ranges. It is confirmed that the proportion of the PVD and the CSMP in this project is between 2:3 and 4:1, which is consistent with the final design scheme provided by the design company. The on‐site monitoring results of this site show the effectiveness of the determination approach proposed in this paper.
High‐Entropy Cubic Pseudo‐Ternary Ag2(S, Se, Te) Materials With Excellent Ductility and Thermoelectric Performance
Authors: Chen Heyang , Shao Chenlu , Huang Shaoji , Gao Zhiqiang , Huang Haoran , Pan Zhenyu , Zhao Kunpeng , Qiu Pengfei , Wei Tian‐Ran , Shi Xun
Published: December 2023

The discovery of ductile Ag2(S, Se, Te) materials opens a new avenue toward high‐performance flexible/hetero‐shaped thermoelectrics. Specifically, the cubic‐structured materials are quite attractive by combining remarkable plasticity, decent thermoelectric figure of merit (zT), and no phase transition above room temperature. However, such materials are quite few and the understanding is inadequate on their mechanical and thermoelectric properties. Enlightened by the high‐entropy principles, a series of pseudo‐ternary Ag2S‐Ag2Se‐Ag2Te alloys is designed and comprehensive diagrams of composition‐structure‐plasticity‐zT are compiled. Subsequently, the compositional region for the cubic phase is outlined. As a high‐entropy example featuring with anion‐site alloying and disordered Ag ions, Ag2‐xS1/3Se1/3Te1/3 materials exhibit impressively large elongations of 60–97%, ultralow lattice thermal conductivities of ≈0.2 W m−1 K−1, and decent zT values of 0.45 at 300 K, 0.8 at 460 K. The materials can be readily rolled into thin foils, showing excellent flexibility. Finally, a six‐leg in‐plane device is fabricated, achieving an output voltage of 13.6 mV, a maximal power of 12.8 µW, and a power density of 14.3 W m−2 under the temperature difference of 30 K, much higher than the organic counterparts. This study largely enriches the members of cubic ductile inorganic materials for the applications in flexible and hetero‐shaped energy and electronic devices.
Recent Trends of Functional Composites and Structures for Electromechanical Sensors: A Review
Authors: Vo Thi Sinh , Kim Kyunghoon
Published: December 2023

With the rapid advancement of modern technology, flexible and wearable electronics, particularly electromechanical sensors, have gained considerable attention for motion‐based applications in medical health monitoring and artificial intelligence. Correspondingly, extensive efforts have been dedicated to enhancing their performance and practicality. Electromechanical sensors based on functional composites and structures accurately detect and monitor the body, generating the corresponding output signals. However, there are several limitations in manufacturing composite sensors, such as the selection and combination of functional materials, geometrical structures, constructed conductive pathways, stability of output signals, and operational lifetime. Thus, this review summarizes notable trends in the electromechanical sensors using functional composites and structures. This also provides an overview of different types of electromechanical pressure and strain sensors, exploring their operational mechanisms regarding triboelectricity, piezoelectricity, piezocapacitance, and piezoresistivity. The unique characteristics of functional materials, including conductive polymers, nanostructured metals, and carbon nanomaterials and composites, are analyzed alongside various design concepts for highly flexible and stretchable sensors. Furthermore, potential applications concerning human motion and human–machine interfaces are also recommended. Additionally, several future outlooks are reviewed for insights into future prospects and strategies. Thus, this review can assist readers in understanding current electromechanical devices more accurately.