bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pompey, Theophanes and the Contest for Empire
Authors: Degen Julian
Published: February 2025

This paper outlines a new framework for the historical study of Roman imperialism in the East as a dialogue between the empire and local elites. It is argued that Pompey created in his representation a persona of himself that Near Eastern nobles considered legitimate. This representation ultimately helped him to stabilise Roman hegemony over Armenia, which had already developed into a contested borderland with the Parthians. From the fragments aligned with the lost account of Theophanes, there is a strong indication that Alexander was the dominating feature in Pompey’s representation in the East. This applies in particular to Pompey’s presentation of the so-called ‘Transcaucasian campaign’. In the course of this campaign, the Romans approached the northern limits of the world, which allowed Pompey to claim universalism by using the myths that were woven around Alexander. Universalism had been at the heart of the discourse on empire that prevailed in the Near East during the first millennium BCE and, therefore, was crucial to any imperial formation in the Near East that preceded the Romans, especially to Alexander, his successors, and Rome’s eastern enemies.
Base sizes for finite linear groups with solvable stabilisers
Authors: Baykalov Anton A.
Published: February 2025

Let 𝐺 be a transitive permutation group on a finite set with solvable point stabiliser and assume that the solvable radical of 𝐺 is trivial.
In 2010, Vdovin conjectured that the base size of 𝐺 is at most 5.
Burness proved this conjecture in the case of primitive 𝐺.
The problem was reduced by Vdovin in 2012 to the case when 𝐺 is an almost simple group.
Now the problem is further reduced to groups of Lie type through work of Baykalov and Burness.
In this paper, we prove the strong form of the conjecture for all almost simple groups with socle isomorphic to

PSL
n

⁢

(
q
)

\mathrm{PSL}_{n}(q)

, and the remaining classical groups will be handled in two forthcoming papers.
Impact breaking energies and transition temperatures of construction steels produced from scrap
Authors: Yilmaz Serdar Osman , Çebi Şenol , Teker Tanju , Dalmış İbrahim Savaş
Published: February 2025

Construction steels must have many mechanical properties according to standards. One of these is suitable impact resistance feature. In the research, the impact transition temperatures of the construction steels produced from scrap in Türkiye as B500B-00, B500C-00, GR60T-01, GR60T-BR, GR60T-02 standards were determined in the range of +60/−30 °C temperatures. The microstructures of the samples were observed by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction. Tensile and microhardness tests were performed on the samples. Fracture surfaces of samples were examined by using SEM. The Charpy fracture energies of five different quality construction steels were detected between 76 and 105 J at 60 °C and 14–22 J at −30 °C. Izod fracture energies were measured between 100 and 135 J at 60 °C and between 35 and 48 J at −30 °C. The impact transition temperatures of the samples were determined in the range of 35 °C to −5 °C.
Crystal structure of 5-(2,2-difluoropropyl)-5-methylbenzo[4,5]imidazo[2,1-a] isoquinolin-6(5H)-one, C20H18F2N2O
Authors: Tong Hongjuan , Xu Xiaona , Zhu Zhoujing , Gao Yanrong , Zhang Cuiya
Published: February 2025

C20H18F2N2O, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 10.7795(8) Å, b = 12.7526(7) Å, c = 13.4631(10) Å, β = 111.105(8)°, V = 1726.6(2) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0737 wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.1862, T = 293 K.
La machine crée, mais énonce-t-elle? Le computationnel et le digital mis en débat
Authors: Colas-Blaise Marion
Published: February 2025

Dans cet article, il s’agit de montrer que si la machine (co)crée, elle ne (co)énonce pas, si l’on entend par « énonciation » l’acte métadiscursif de définir les conditions de possibilité de la production d’un texte verbal ou visuel, la gestion des modalités qui conduisent des virtualités et potentialités au stade de la réalisation ainsi que l’évaluation du processus a posteriori. D’une part, nous attardant sur la génération texte-image par DALL•E 3, mais aussi analysant des glitches, nous cherchons à montrer que, grâce à l’indétermination inhérente au code, grâce à une dose d’aléatoire, voire grâce à une certaine « organicité » qui n’exclut pas le vague et le flou, la créativité n’est pas seulement humaine: au-delà de l’accident, la machine peut produire du nouveau en « faisant ce qu’elle a à faire ». D’autre part, en ce qui concerne la « (co)énonciation machinique », nous dégageons une séquence énonciative qui atteste la responsabilité de l’humain dans les phases initiale et finale, la phase médiane voyant se multiplier des instances machiniques sous-tendues par des forces anonymes et impersonnelles.
ChatGPT and the others: artificial intelligence, social actors, and political communication. A tentative sociosemiotic glance
Authors: Montanari Federico
Published: February 2025

The aim of this article is, on the one hand, to take up and discuss some key categories and concepts in semiotics, in an attempt to analyze the mechanisms underlying current artificial intelligence (AI) models, with a focus on ChatGPT. Although many of these concepts are already being debated, they remain crucial in relation to semiotic and sociosemiotic categories. Concepts such as generativity, perception, textuality, and the effects of meaning, as well as the notion of language itself, require a new semiotic evaluation, including in relation to a cultural history of AI, and the metaphors associated with it. In addition, this article aims to propose more of a general observation and review of some theoretical problems and sociosemiotic issues related to the advent of AIs with some correlated examples, such as in the field of political communication and conflict.
Correlation Between Limb Length and Muscle Mass of The Lower Extremity
Authors: Firmansyah Awang , Tjahyaningtijas Hapsari Peni Agustin , Rasy Ahmad Hafizh Ainur , Budijono Agung Prijo , Putro Andika Bayu , Putra I Wayan Valentino Eka
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Muscle mass has a contribution to body strength. One third of the human body is part of the lower extremity. The limbs are part of the lower extremity. This study aims to investigate the length of the limb with muscle mass. Methods: Cross-sectional study with the subjects of this study were 39 students (12 females and 27 males) with male characteristics (age 20.03±0.7, height 168±5.46, weight 61.92±10.98, BMI 22±4.24) while in women (age 20.16±0.83, height 158.83.3±5.13, weight 54.7±12.02, BMI 21.65±4.51). Pearson correlation from SPSS version 26 with a significance level of P-value < 0.05. Findings: Based on the data, there was a signifi correlation between the length of the leg and muscle mass on both the right (P-value: 0.000, r: 0.634) and the left (P-value: 0.000, r: 0.629). Conclusion: This study proves that the longer the limbs a person has, the greater the muscle mass he has.
Calculation of Integral Indicators of the Metabolic Status and Filtration Function of Kidneys in Patients with a Combat Mine-Explosive Injury who Lost Significant Body Weight due to Limb Amputation
Authors: Sydorova Nataliia , Kazmirchuk Kateryna , Kolisnyk Oleh , Tsaralunha Vira , Kobirnichenko Yuliia , Sydorova Liudmyla
Published: February 2025

Background: The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to investigate the possibility of optimizing the calculation of integral indicators of the metabolic status and filtration function of the kidneys in patients with combat mine-explosive injuries who have lost significant body weight due to limb amputation.Methods: Data from 81 servicemen (all males) with combat mine-explosive limb injuries, including those with isolated severe limb injuries (Group 1, n=34) or traumatic amputations (Group 2, n=47), were analyzed. We assessed demographic indicators and the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), calculated according to the generally accepted formulas with correction for lost body parts in the amputees.Results: The proportion of amputees with obesity as measured by the body mass index in Group 2 without correction for the lost body parts was significantly lower than that in Group 1 and Group 2 adjusted for the lost body parts (2.12% versus 17.65% and 21.28%, respectively, p<0.05 and p<0.01), but it was similar in Group 1 and Group 2 after body weight adjustment for the lost body parts of the amputees (p>0.05). The mean level of serum creatinine in the patients in Group 2 was significantly lower than that in Group 1 (75.19±11.62 vs. 90.93±37.12 μmol/L, respectively, p=0.0206). The estimated GFR according to the Cockcroft and Gault formula (CGF) with adjusted for the lost body part body weight was significantly greater in Group 2 than that in Group 1 (143.63±42.58 and 123.92±26.34 mL/min/1.73m2, respectively, p=0.0379) as well as GRF according to CGF corrected for the body surface area (BSA) (131.59±39.94 and 106.17±21.88 mL/min/1.73m2, respectively, p=0.0040). Only a few individuals had a moderate decrease in GFR according to CGF or CGF adjusted for BSA, but glomerular hyperfiltration was suspected in a significant number of patients, specifically, 23.53% and 17.65% of the patients in Group 1, respectively, and in 29.79% and 36.17% of the patients in Group 2, respectively (even 51.6% according to CGF corrected for BSA in Group 2 adjusted for the lost body parts).Conclusions: In amputees, it is necessary to calculate their body weight considering the lost body part for an adequate assessment of their metabolic status. To calculate GFR, it is advisable to use CGF considering the lost body parts with or without adjustment for BSA to avoid the possibility of underestimating GFR calculated by other formulas. Special control is necessary for patients with hyperfiltration suspected by CGF, since this sign can be a predictor of future metabolic disorders.
Thermal evaluation of a Cs-loaded waste vitrification
Authors: Lopes Costa e Silva Danilo , Silva Araújo Mariana , Alves Fungaro Denise , Mello-Castanho Sonia
Published: February 2025

Nuclear power generation has been increasing worldwide over the years, helping to avoid the emission of billions of tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) compared to coal power generation, making it a reliable method for providing green energy. However, as a byproduct of nuclear reactors, as well as fuel processing plants, hospitals, and research institutes, radioactive waste is generated. These wastes pose a significant risk to human health and the environment due to the penetration of radioactivity into tissues, which damages DNA. Therefore, they need to be managed appropriately before long-term disposal in geological repositories. Among the many radionuclides found in high-activity waste, 137Cs is of particular concern due to its high mobility in water systems, requiring special methods for its capture and immobilization in stable matrices. In this study, the immobilization of 137Cs radionuclides in a borosilicate glass doped with niobium (Nb) was thermally evaluated through a vitrification process, using a synthetic type A zeolite saturated with 133Cs (stable) as a simulated radioactive waste. The incorporation of 40.0 wt.% of this material into the glass composition resulted in a vitrified waste with good melting homogeneity and thermal stability. Several changes due to the incorporation were detected in thermal analysis (DTA), with events such as glass transition, initial crystallization, complete crystallization, and subsequent melting all shifting to higher temperatures. The compositional changes induced by vitrification moved the system to new locations in the ternary equilibrium phase diagrams of the subsystems, in different compatibility triangles, and closer to higher liquidus temperatures than those observed for the raw glass matrix. Through crystallization induced by heat treatment, crystalline phases were obtained, as indicated in the phase diagrams. Cs atoms previously immobilized in the glass network structure became components of pollucite crystals (CsAlSi₂O₆) during heating up to 800 ºC. These results are promising for using this glass composition to immobilize waste containing 137Cs, as Cs atoms showed excellent interaction with this system in both the glass and crystalline phases.
Evaluation of Sweet Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) Genotypes for Agronomic Traits, Stalk Yield and Brix Value in Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia
Authors:   Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Addis Ababa  Melkassa Agricultural Research Center, P. O. Box 436 Adama, Neim Semman , Rebuma Merera ,   Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Addis Ababa  Melkassa Agricultural Research Center, P. O. Box 436 Adama
Published: February 2025

Thirty (30) Sweet Sorghum genotypes were evaluated for 8 traits in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications at Melkassa Agricultural Research Center in 2018. The objective of the study were to develop best performed sweet sorghum genotypes that adapted to central rift valley area of Ethiopia and to identify best performed genotypes for agronomic traits, stalk yield and brix value. The analysis of variance showed that mean square of sweet sorghum genotypes was highly significant (p<0.01) for all traits studied. The analysis of variances of sweet sorghum genotypes evaluated for 8 traits revealed highly significant difference between the genotypes for most traits and significant difference among genotypes for days to heading. It was interesting to note that there were eight genotypes matured before the check while genotype MR#22XIS8613/2/3-1-3 was the late maturing with 133 days. Genotype Ent.#64DTN shown to head and mature early in both characters. In case of plant height, twelve genotypes were found to be taller than the check. Genotype IESV 91104 DL was taller than other all genotypes with the height 215cm. In sweet sorghum, tall and thick stems contribute more towards the millable cane yield and juice yield. There were twelve genotypes have brix values greater than 18% before grain filling while only ten genotypes scored greater than 18% at maturity stage. The genotype, IESV 92001 DL, was the superior genotype in brix values before grain filling and ICSB 654 also revealed highest in brix value at physiological maturity. The most important genotypes for showing excellent performance on grain yield per hectare obtained from IESV 92008DL, MR # 22XIS8613/2/3-1-3 and IS 2331with grain yield of 2791 kg/ha, 3416 kg/ha and 2677 kg/ha respectively, than the check variety (2530 kilogram per hectare).
Determination of Optimal Soil Moisture Depletion Level for Groundnut at Amibara, Middle Awash, Ethiopia
Authors:   Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research/Werer Agricultural Research Center, P.O. Box 2003, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Jemal M. Hassen , ondimu T. Adugna ,   Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research/Werer Agricultural Research Center, P.O. Box 2003, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Nigusie A. Sori ,   Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research/Werer Agricultural Research Center, P.O. Box 2003, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Fikadu R. Borena ,   Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research/Werer Agricultural Research Center, P.O. Box 2003, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Kebede N. Tufa ,   Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research/Werer Agricultural Research Center, P.O. Box 2003, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Published: February 2025

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the response of Groundnut to different allowable soil moisture depletion levels. From the three consecutive years of combined data analyses, the effect of different allowable soil moisture depletion level on the yield of groundnut and other yield components was not significantly different. However, there was a statistically significance difference on crop water productivity. Among the five treatments, SMD3, which is had 50% allowable soil moisture depletion level gave the highest mean unshelled yield. Whereas, SMD4, which is had 60% allowable soil moisture depletion level, gave the lowest unshelled yield. 30% allowable soil moisture depletion level gave the highest crop water productivity. Even if the different allowable soil moisture depletion level didn’t did not show a significant difference on yield of Groundnut, 50% allowable soil moisture depletion level gave relatively the highest yield and optimum crop water productivity. Therefore, for Amibara and other similar agroecological areas irrigating Groundnut at 50% allowable soil moisture depletion level will provide an optimum yield.
Assessment of Cassava Processing Machinery in Akinyele Local Government, Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Agricultural Education, School of Vocational and Technical Education, Emmanuel Alayande College of Education, Oyo., Gbadamosi Jimoh , Kolawole O. Peter ,   Department of Agricultural Education, School of Vocational and Technical Education,  Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti.Oyo Campus/Mechanization unit, IITA Ibadan.
Published: February 2025

The study was conducted to know the state of cassava processing machinery and the knowledge of operators on maintenance of that machinery in Akinyele local government areas of Oyo state. The local Government is currently hosting International Institute of Tropical Agriculture IITA and total number of 50 cassava processors responded to our questionnaires. The distribution was 5 cassava processors per ward. The questionnaires used to collect data consists of the demographic structures, observed cassava processing machinery, methods of operating the machines, assessment of abandoned machines and reasons, ownership of the processing centres, sources of power for operating machines and the relationship between the cassava processors and the machine manufacturers. The results show that 75% of the processors were female, average age between 31-40 years (46%). Most of the machines abandoned were obsolete because of new technology and no capacity development to improve those machines for the cassava processors. This will be needed to boost agriculture and employment.
Effects of GA3, BAP and KNO3 on the Germination and DNA Content of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)
Authors:   Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, University of Port Harcourt,  P.M.B. 5323, Port Harcourt, Nigeria., Mensah S.I. , Ejeagba P.O. ,   Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, University of Port Harcourt,  P.M.B. 5323, Port Harcourt, Nigeria., Okonwu K. ,   Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, University of Port Harcourt,  P.M.B. 5323, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Published: February 2025

Effects of gibberellic acid (GA3), 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and potassium nitrate (KNO3) on the seed germination and DNA concentration of cucumber (Cucumis sativus) radicle were assessed. The concentrations of these growth stimulants were 0 mM, 1 mM, 5 mM and 10 mM. The cucumber seeds were surface sterilized in ethanol for 5 minutes and rinsed with distilled water before pretreatment with these growth stimulants. The germination study was allowed to stand for 14 days and DNA concentration of cucumber radicle with the highest germination count was determined for each growth stimulant. The study showed that cucumber seeds had higher germination count under the light condition than in the dark condition. However, it is not statistically different. The study also showed that percentage germination of cucumber seeds was enhanced by GA3 (57 – 72%) and BAP (62 – 70%) when compared to the Control (50%) except KNO3 (41 – 44%). Across the treatments, GA3 gave the highest germination percentage followed by BAP with 5 mM concentration producing the highest germination count while 10 mM recorded the highest in KNO3. The DNA concentration of the cucumber radicle that produced these highest germination percentage are: GA3 (47.40 ng/µl), BAP (98.87 ng/µl), KNO3 (103.23 ng/µl) and Control (79.73 ng/µl). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that treatments are significant at p-value (0.0001) < 5% significant level for cucumber seed. The study recommends the use of 5 mM GA3 in germinating cucumber seeds.
Nutritive assessment of different forms of Piliostigma thonningii leaves in West Africa Dwarf Sheep diet
Authors:   Department of Animal Production and Health, Ladoke  Akintola University of Technology  PMB 4000, Ogbomoso, Nigeria, Akinlade J.A. , Fabule S.A. ,   Department of Animal Production and Health, Ladoke  Akintola University of Technology  PMB 4000, Ogbomoso, Nigeria, Alalade J.A. ,   Department of Animal Health and Production, Oyo State College of Agriculture and  Technology, P.M.B. 10, Igbo Ora.Oyo State., Asaolu V.O. ,   Department of Animal Production and Health, Ladoke  Akintola University of Technology  PMB 4000, Ogbomoso, Nigeria, Aderinola O.A. ,   Department of Animal Production and Health, Ladoke  Akintola University of Technology  PMB 4000, Ogbomoso, Nigeria, Okunlola O.O. ,   Department of Animal Health and Production, Oyo State College of Agriculture and  Technology, P.M.B. 10, Igbo Ora.Oyo State.
Published: February 2025

Small ruminants are relatively easier to manage and produce than other species of livestock. An experiment was carried out to investigate the performance and nutrient digestibility of West African dwarf growing sheep fed mixture of Panicum maximum and different forms of Piliostigma thonningii for 60 days feeding trial. A total of twenty (20) WAD sheep were randomly allocated to four treatments (T1= P. maximum (PM) 100%; T2= 70% P. maximum (PM) + 30% fresh Piliostigma thonningii; T3= 70% P. maximum (PM) + 30% wilted Piliostigma thonningii ; T4= 70% P. maximum (PM) + 30% dried Piliostigma thonningii ) with five animals per treatment. The experimental diet was fed at 3% body weight of individual animals. The results revealed that animals fed T2 recorded the least weight gain (75.13g/day) while the highest weight gain (77.21g/day) was recorded for T4. The daily weight gain of animals were significantly different across all treatments (P<0.05). The forms of PT leaves had effect on dry matter (DM) and nutrient compositions. DM and NDF were higher (P<0.05) in the dry PT leaves. Mean crude protein (CP) was similar in the fresh (10.79±1.80), wilted (10.74± 0.9) and dry forms (10.26±1.20). Higher value of (620.90± 2.10) neutral detergent fibre (NDF) was obtained for dry leaves and the least value (532.71±1.62) was obtained for the fresh leaves. Mineral contents was reduced in the dry form while the anti-nutrients except for the oxalate was significantly (P<0.05) reduced in the dry form of PT. Results suggest that feed intake, weight change and nutrient digestibility can be improved by feeding of PT leaves to sheep in the dry form, and that the drying reduced most of the secondary metabolites of PT leaves. Further studies is however recommended to determine whether further higher supplementation levels for all forms of PT leaves is necessary for optimum utilization as the dry season feed supplement for sheep.
Impact of Improved Wheat Technology Package Adoption on Productivity in Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors:   Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Baye Belay
Published: February 2025

This study examines the impact of adoption of improved wheat technology package (including improved wheat varieties, information regarding improved wheat management practices as well as artificial/chemical fertilizer) on productivity using 837 sample farm households in Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. Propensity score matching (PSM) technique was employed since it is an increasingly utilized standard approach for evaluating impacts using observational data of a single period. It is found that full adoption of improved wheat technology package appears to significantly increase productivity growth on the average by 61 to 67% for farm households in the study area. Thus, the study recommends that full adoption of improved wheat technology package could be an effective strategy to enhance productivity and, thereby, production that contributes a lot to the structural transformation of the Ethiopian economy.
Trends in Death Rates for Leading Methods of Injury: United States, 2003-2023
Authors: Curtin Sally
Published: February 2025

This data brief presents trends in injury death rates, in total and by the three leading intents (unintentional, suicide, homicide) for 2003 to 2023.
Operating status of adult day services centers in 2022
Authors: Lendon Jessica , Singh Priyanka , Caffrey Christine , Sengupta Manisha , Lu Zhaohui
Published: February 2025

The National Post-acute and Long-term Care Study (NPALS) provided preliminary estimates of Adult Day Services Center (ADSC) operating statuses in 2020. This report provides updated estimates from 2022 to compare centers that were physically open with services provided “onsite only,” to open or temporarily closed centers that provided services onsite, at participants’ residences, or virtually. Operating status estimates are compared by U.S. Census region, metropolitan statistical area status, Medicaid-licensure, and number of enrolled participants.
PERCEPÇÕES E PRÁTICAS DE PROFESSORAS ATUANTES NAS ESCOLAS PÚBLICAS MINEIRAS QUANTO ÀS CONTRIBUIÇÕES DE VISITAS EXTRAESCOLARES PARA A FORMAÇÃO INTEGRAL DOS ALUNOS
Authors: Pires Bruno Inácio da Silva , Colombo Junior Pedro Donizete
Published: February 2025

Esta pesquisa investigou a contribuição de atividades extraescolares como fomento para a formação integral dos alunos, no olhar de quatro professoras atuantes na Educação Básica de escolas públicas da cidade de Uberaba/MG. Atividades extraescolares podem ser entendidas como ações que considerem a relação com a sociedade na formação do aluno, sendo experiências que permitem conectar o aluno ao seu potencial de integralidade de formação acadêmica e sociocultural. A investigação foi dividida em dois blocos, sendo a oferta de um curso de formação continuada para professores e o acompanhamento das suas práticas em atividades extraescolares, com os seus alunos, no pós-curso de formação. Neste artigo, trazemos à luz discussões relativas ao segundo bloco, sendo este o corpus de investigação. Em uma abordagem qualitativa de pesquisa, adotamos, na construção de dados, entrevistas semiestruturadas com as professoras participantes e observações não participante das visitas por elas realizadas. A análise dos dados se pautou na Análise de Conteúdo, na perspectiva de Laurence Bardin. Os resultados evidenciaram a relevância das atividades extraescolares na construção de aprendizagens mais significativas e contextualizadas, contribuindo para o desenvolvimento cognitivo, social e cultural dos discentes. Entretanto, desafios também foram identificados, como: práticas excludentes na seleção de alunos para as visitas extraescolares e falta de envolvimento das professoras na organização de atividades, ficando sob responsabilidade, muitas vezes, da gestão escolar e falta de apoio institucional para a realização de atividades extraescolares.
Promotion of Access to Information Act: key issues for occupational therapists.
Authors: Van Niekerk Matty
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Increasingly, healthcare practice, including occupational therapy, is influenced by non-medical legislation, such as the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA), which regulates the right to access information held by others. While the PAIA does not intend to limit existing access to information rights, such as a patient's right to access their health information in terms of the National Health Act, the PAIA does provide better clarity regarding access to patients' information than health-related legislation and policies, including those of the Health Professions Council of South Africa.
Method: Using normative analysis of a desktop review of relevant legislation, case law and literature, this paper aims to provide guidance to occupational therapists about patients' right to access their information in terms of five themes:
Theme 1: What is the difference between a public and a private body?
Theme 2: Who may request access to information?
Theme 3: Is there a prescribed process to be followed when requesting access to information?
Theme 4: What is the nature of information to which access is granted?
Theme 5: Are there any circumstances under which access may reasonably be refused?
Conclusion: The paper concludes that, while existing health-related legislation and policies already provide the right to access to information, application of specific guidance from the PAIA e.g., using prescribed forms to request access, could serve to better protect patients' and practitioners' interests alike.
Assessment of in-hand manipulation by occupational therapists in paediatric practices in South Africa
Authors: Kruger Annelize , Strauss Monique , Visser Marieta , Nel Mariette
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Assessment of in-hand manipulation is fundamental to guide treatment for children with fine motor delays. Limited literature is available on how South African occupational therapists assess in-hand manipulation. This study aimed to describe which current in-hand manipulation assessment methods are used and what the preferences of occupational therapists in all areas of paediatric practices are regarding a suitable instrument.
Methods: Quantitative cross-sectional study design with a non-probability, purposive sampling method was used. Participants completed an EvaSys survey system online questionnaire.
Results: Two-hundred-and-ninety-two (n=292) occupational therapists registered with the HPCSA participated. Limited familiarity (n=50; 17.1%) with the formal assessment instruments described in literature was reported. The informal assessment methods most commonly used were subjective observation of tasks (n=287; 98.3%) of scholastic tasks (n=261; 89.4%) and play tasks (n=255; 87.3%) for children between the ages of five to six years (n=273; 93.5%). Preferences supported a descriptive instrument accompanied by a user manual that is administered under 15 minutes, in multiple languages, and with attention to the quality of movements and compensatory techniques used by the child.
Conclusion: Results showed that the current and preferred assessment methods used by occupational therapists might provide guidance for the future development of a contextual, relevant in-hand manipulation instrument for paediatric practices in South Africa.
Postural control in children receiving intervention using the Astronaut Training Protocol
Authors: Katzenellenbogen Gabrielle , Franzsen Denise , Van der Linde Janine
Published: February 2025

Introduction: The vestibular system plays an important role in postural control and an upright posture when seated at a table. Some children have difficulty with their in-seat posture resulting in increased in-seat movement. This research investigated the effect of the Astronaut Training Protocol on a child's vestibular processing and postural control, and by extension their in-seat behaviour.Method: A case study research design with multiple data sources was used with four participants identified presenting with dysfunction in in-seat posture and in-seat movement. Data were collected over three phases: Pre-Astronaut Training (Baseline), Post-Astronaut Training (Intervention) and Withdrawal. The Pre-Astronaut Training and Withdrawal phases consisted of four sessions of sensory-based occupational therapy while the intervention phase included eight Astronaut Training sessions in addition to regular sensory-based occupational therapy. Four assessments were used to determine vestibular and postural control changes at each phase: Movement ABCone-leg balance, Post-rotary Nystagmus (PRN) test, in-seat posture assessment (designed for the purpose of this study), and in-seat movement through the collection of data using an accelerometer.Results: Participants' scores differed, depending on their initial ability to tolerate rotary input. This research showed that change in vestibular function and postural control differed for participants who could tolerate rotary input and those who were over-reactive to rotary input at the start of the study. Generally, the participants who were over-reactive to rotary input showed greater improvement Post-Astronaut Training with continued smaller improvements into the Withdrawal phase. Participants who could tolerate rotary input showed improvement in in-seat posture and in-seat movement during the Post-Astronaut training phase and deteriorated during the Withdrawal phase.Conclusion: The Astronaut Training Protocol can improve vestibular function and postural control in children with poor in-seat posture and in-seat movement, although the frequency and intensity of the programme still need to be confirmed.
Examining wound management in hand therapy within the South African context
Authors: Esterhuizen Lezane , Govender Pragashnie , Naidoo Deshini
Published: February 2025

Background: Internationally, it is within occupational therapists' scope of practice to provide interventions for the prevention of wounds, amelioration of wounds and to address occupational dysfunction resulting from wounds. In South Africa, however, the role of occupational therapy in wound management in hand therapy is unclear.Aim: This study aimed to describe current wound management practices and views of occupational therapists on their perceived role and preparedness for providing wound management to hand injured patients in South Africa.Method: A cross-sectional survey was administered with a sample of 106 participants via non-probability convenience sampling. Frequencies and percentages are presented for quantitative data analysed with descriptive statistics. Open-ended responses were analysed via inductive thematic analysis.Results: Findings indicated a high prevalence of wounds in patients with hand injuries. Occupational therapists in South Africa have reported experiencing a high demand for involvement in wound management interventions. The identified role of occupational therapists includes providing interventions for the amelioration of wounds and addressing occupational dysfunction resulting from wounds, amongst others.Conclusion: Improved guidance on the role and scope of occupational therapy in wound management is required. This is a need within the South African context due to the high prevalence of wounds in populations of hand injured patients that occupational therapists serve.Â Key words: wound management, hand therapy, occupational therapy, International Classification of Functioning, Disability and HealthÂ
Human praxis as possible innovation for occupational therapy practice: An interpretivist description from people who enact praxis
Authors: Rauch van der Merwe Tania , Niemann Jean-Mari , Muller Melicia , Gillmer Armunay , Buschow Roxanne , Crous Tihani , Basson Lindie
Published: February 2025

Introduction: The term 'human praxis' has been referred to in an array of theoretical frameworks: philosophy, institutional change, education, and critical theory. Broadly, human praxis denotes human agency towards personal and collective transformation in the wake of various kinds of constrictions, regardless of external interventions. If occupational therapy can understand the mechanisms of human praxis, it could be used as a potential therapeutic tool leading to the improvement of health and well-being within communities at large.Method: Eight individuals actively living human praxis participated in semi-structured interviews. Purposive sampling, and eligibility criteria based on a description of human praxis synthesized from literature, were employed. Six researchers independently performed a manual qualitative thematic analysis of the transcribed interviews, which served as method triangulation.Findings: Data analysis revealed that human praxis exists as a dynamic, and recursive two-phase process, consisting of initiators (Theme I), and continuous enablers (Theme II). In addition, seven categories (constituents) emerged from each of the two themes.Conclusion: Human praxis can be applied in the conscious facilitation of the interdependence between the various constituents such as the individual and the collective, personal and ongoing shared responsibility, and between conditions of constraint and resilience toward self-determination and growth.Â Keywords: Human agency, recursive, individual collective interdependentÂ Â
Becoming contextually responsive: taking hold of a shared vision for our profession
Authors: Van Stormbroek Kirsty , Rauch van der Merwe Tania
Published: February 2025

Equitable access to life-giving occupational participation lies at the centre of occupational therapy's mission and is pivotal to development in South Africa. Contextually responsive education, research, policy and practice are a means of achieving this. This, however, necessitates knowing how to be or become contextually responsive as individuals and as a profession. It also necessitates partnership between our 'feet on the ground' practitioners and 'head in the cloud' academics - a productive collision of reality and possibility. This commentary explores what it means to be contextually responsive, whether it's possible for practitioners and scholars to pursue this together, and poses recommendations for finding each other in the journey of becoming.
Adapting to Change: The Impact of COVID-19 on Dental Education and Its Future
Authors: Pillay Harsha , Moodley Rajeshree
Published: February 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted dental education and resulted in unprecedented curricular changes. While virtual teaching enabled theoretical content delivery, practical training was temporarily postponed. Upon resumption, innovative approaches were required to safeguard students, staff and patients.
Performing the Tetrazolium Dye Assay to Assess Substrate Transport in Anaerobic, Thermophilic Microbes v1
Authors: D Richardson Isaiah , Dev Sharma Bishal , G Olson Daniel
Published: February 2025

This experimental protocol describes the first-reported application of the well-established tetrazolium dye assay to qualitatively assess substrate transport in the anaerobic, thermophilic microbes Clostridium thermocellum and Thermoanaerobacterium saccharolyticum. This work was motivated by an effort to expand the substrate range of these microbes to further our understanding of their non-canonical metabolism. To assess substrate transport in these microbes, tetrazolium dye assays were performed using BIOLOG PM1 and PM2A MicroPlates. Each plate contained 96 different carbon substrates to experimentally test. The tetrazolium dye assay results reported here confirmed the transport of known substrates into these microbes, as well as the transport of several previously unknown substrates, such as the ability of wild-type C. thermocellum to transport Arbutin, Propionic Acid, and Turanose into the cell. This protocol is broadly applicable for qualitatively assessing the transport of carbon substrates into any anaerobic, thermophilic microbes of interest.
THE IMPACT OF BUY-NOW-PAY-LATER (BNPL) SERVICES ON SAUDI UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ BUYING AND FINANCIAL BEHAVIORS
Authors: Alessa Ghaida A. , Alabdan Rana
Published: February 2025

This study examines the impact of Buy-Now-Pay-Later (BNPL) services on the buying and financial behaviors of Saudi students at Majmaah University. The research focuses on understanding how BNPL usage influences impulse buying, purchase intention, savings, and investment decision-making. Despite the increasing adoption of BNPL services globally, research specifically targeting the Saudi university student population remains limited. This study addresses this gap by exploring the factors that drive BNPL adoption among this digitally-savvy generation, which in Saudi is also experiencing new economic conditions under the Vision 2030 initiative. Using a convenience sampling method, a closed-ended Arabic-language survey was distributed via social media platforms and email to a sample of Majmaah University students; 218 responses were obtained. The survey comprised six demographic questions and 18 items to be rated on a 5-point Likert scale to measure respondents’ attitudes and financial behaviors. The results indicate that while BNPL services have minimal impact on impulse buying, BNPL usage negatively affects students’ financial behaviors, particularly, in terms of personal savings and investments. Nonetheless, respondents expressed strong willingness to continue using such services. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of BNPL’s role in shaping financial and purchasing behaviors among university students, highlighting the need for further research and policy considerations in this context.
A Parsimonious Hedonic Distributional Regression Model for Large Data with Heterogeneous Covariate Effects
Authors: Granna Julian , Brunauer Wolfgang , Lang Stefan , Umlauf Nikolaus
Published: February 2025

Modeling real estate prices in the context of hedonic models often involves fitting a Generalized Additive Model, where only the mean of a (lognormal) distribution is regressed on a set of variables without taking other parameters of the distribution into account. Thus far, the application of regression models that model the full conditional distribution of the prices, has been infeasible for large data sets, even on powerful machines. Moreover, accounting for heterogeneity of effects regarding time and locale, is often achieved by naive stratification of the data rather than on a model basis. A novel batchwise backfitting algorithm is applied in the context of a structured additive distributional regression model, which enables us to efficiently model all distributional parameters of the price distribution. Using a large German dataset of apartment asking prices with over one million observations, we employ a model-based clustering algorithm to capture the heterogeneity of covariate effects on the parameters with respect to dwelling locale. We thus identify clusters that are homogeneous with respect to the influence of dwelling locale on price. A boosting type algorithm of the batchwise backfitting algorithm is then used to automatically determine the variables relevant for modelling the location and scale parameters in each regional cluster. This allows for a different influence of variables on the distribution of prices depending on the locale and price segment of the dwelling.
ANTI-ADHESIVE MEMBRANES FOR CARDIOVASCULAR SURGERY - EFFICACY EVALUATION IN A LARGE ANIMALS STUDY
Authors: Kudryavtseva Yulia A. , Kanonykina Anastasia Yu. , Sardin Egor S. , Stasev Alexander N.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

Formation of adhesions after chest surgery remains an unresolved issue. The use of biodegradable anti-adhesion membranes with anti-inflammatory activity can reduce the risk of adhesion. Preclinical assessment of the developed membranes in a large laboratory animal model is a mandatory step in the development of a medical device.

 

Aim. To conduct a preclinical evaluation of the effectiveness of an anti-adhesive biodegradable membrane with anti-inflammatory activity in a large laboratory animal model (sheep).

Methods. A composition of biodegradable polymers was used to manufacture the membranes: polylactide-co-glycolide copolymer (50:50) Mm 20–30 kDa and polylactide-co-glycolide (85:15). The polymers were dissolved in 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoroisopropanol. To impart anti-inflammatory properties to the membrane, dexamethasone (DM) was added to the membrane composition at a final concentration of 1 mg DM/1 ml of polymer solution. The membranes were manufactured by electrospinning. The anti-adhesion efficiency of the membranes was assessed on an animal model (sheep) during implantation into the chest cavity.

Results. In the control group of animals, a massive adhesive process was noted. In the experimental group, six animals (66.6%) had no adhesions at all, two animals (22.2%) had weak adhesion of the lung and pericardium in the area of ​​membrane fixation with suture material, and one animal (11.1%) had moderate adhesion of the pericardium to the surface of the chest cavity.

Conclusion. The developed biodegradable membranes have demonstrated satisfactory anti-adhesive activity (88.8%). The implantation experience showed that it is better to use a membrane 30% larger in size than necessary to properly close the wound.
AWARENESS, TREATMENT AND CONTROL OF ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION IN THE POPULATION (LITERATURE REVIEW)
Authors: Mazdorova Ekaterina V. , Asketova Bermet A. , Ryabikov Andrey N. , Malyutina Sofia K.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

It is important to implement programs to improve prevention, awareness, and control of arterial hypertension. The levels of hypertension control vary depending on populations and time periods. This review presents an assessment of the variation in awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension in modern populations around the world.

 

Abstract

High blood pressure (BP) is a major risk factor in the development of premature death and disability throughout the world. We conducted an analytical review of the medical research publications for the period 2005–2023, which assessed the prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of hypertension (HT) in various populations in the contemporary period. For literature search we used electronic databases of Google Academy (https://scholar.google.ru/), PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov), eLIBRARY.ru (https://www.elibrary), and the data from international and Russian journals dedicated to cardiology and internal medicine. The results of the analysis showed significant geographical variations in the HT prevalence (from < 20% to > 60%); predominantly high rates of HT awareness and treatment in developed countries (up to > 80%) with low relevant indicators in underdeveloped countries, for example, in Sub-Saharan African regions (below 15–20%). The level of hypertension control varies from < 10% to > 60%. The assessment of adherence to the guidelines for CVD prevention, is most consistently reported by the series of EUROASPIRE I–V, NHANES, NCD Risk factor Collaboration, ESSE-RF studies. Despite the availability of modern guidelines for the management of HT and existence of effective and safe antihypertensive drugs, the control of HT is very difficult. According to generalized data, about 50% of hypertensive patients do not achieve target BP levels. Recent trends demonstrate that a dual approach to reducing HT through primary prevention and improved treatment and control is achievable not only in high-income countries, but also in middle- and low-income settings. Accordingly, the implementation of coordinated programs to improve the prevention, detection, education, treatment and control of hypertension is warranted and important worldwide.
THE ROLE OF NEUTROPHIL EXTRACELLULAR TRAPS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS IN CARDIAC SURGERY PATIENTS: DIAGNOSTIC AND CORRECTION METHODS
Authors: Shukevich Dmitry L. , Baev Timofey A. , Babkov Vladislav A.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) take a predominant part in the reaction of the macroorganism to damage of any etiology and make a significant contribution during the pathological process. However, in many chronic diseases and urgent conditions, NETs and NETosis negatively affect the patient's condition, worsening the prognosis of the outcome.

The development and application of extracorporeal therapies can help break the vicious circle of NETosis and stabilize the general condition of a critical patient.

 

Abstract

The role of neutrophils in the immune response has been studied quite well. However, there are mechanisms of neutrophil response that can significantly worsen the patient's condition, thus requiring additional study. Such mechanisms include neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), the physiological and pathophysiological role of which has recently been of great interest. In particular, the use of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) may be one of the mechanisms of neutrophil activation and excessive NETs–NETosis formation. NETosis negatively affects the outcome of the disease due to the aggravation of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) and sepsis. The methods of diagnosis and treatment for NETosis in patients in critical condition have not been sufficiently studied. Nevertheless, recently scientists developed and clinically tested devices for extracorporeal removal of NETs, which are of great scientific and practical interest, since the effectiveness of NETs sorption has not been studied yet.