bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Efficacy of a Novel Medical Artificial Intelligence Large Model(MedGo)-Guided Identification and Personalized Treatment of Sepsis: Study Protocol for a Single- centered Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Jiang Sen , Liu Tong , Wang Chunxue , An Bo , Zhang Haitao , Tang Lunxian
Published: February 2025

Background
Sepsis, a life-threatening organ dysfunction resulting from a dysregulated host response to infection, remains a major global health challenge with high morbility and mortality. Current diagnostic and management frameworks still lack the satisfied sensitivity and specificity for early detection and personalized treatment. In this study, we aim to evaluate the efficacy of MedGo-Sepsis, a novel large language model developed by our collaborating team and us that integrates clinical and immunological data, to guide the identification and personalized treatment of sepsis in the emergency department.
Methods
This single-center, randomized controlled trial will enroll adult patients presenting to the emergency department with suspected sepsis. Participants will be randomized 1:1 at the physician team level to either the intervention group receiving standard care augmented by MedGo-Sepsis guidance or the control group receiving standard care alone. MedGo-Sepsis provides real-time risk assessments, detailed immune parameter profiling, stratification based on immune phenotypes, and personalized treatment recommendations. The primary outcome is 28-day all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes include changes in Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, diagnostic accuracy, time to appropriate antibiotic administration, resource utilization, patient-reported outcomes, and physician workload.
Discussion
This trial will assess whether MedGo-Sepsis, through the integration of individualized immune data with large language model technology, improves outcomes for patients with sepsis compared to standard care. The combination of enhanced diagnostics and tailored therapeutic strategies has the potential to advance precision management of sepsis in the critical emergency setting.
Trial registration
The trial has been prospectively registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2400094116) on December 17, 2024.
Phototropic self-growing hydrogels based on a tricyanofuran derivatized photoswitch
Authors: Li Chuang , HAN PEIXI , Yang Xuehan , Zhou Shuailong , Zheng Yifan , Chu Zhaomiao , Du Mengqi
Published: February 2025

Phototropism is ubiquitous in plants that endows them directional movement and substantial growth toward light sources. Simultaneous replication of such phototropic movement and volumetric growth in synthetic polymers is important but currently remains challenging. Here, we report the molecular design of a photoswitchable tricyanofuran (TCF) based hydrogel that can concurrently display such phototropic movement and self-growth in water under stimulation of light and pH. The macroscale growth of the hdyrogel originates directly from the molecular charge rise of the TCF switch upon isomerization induced by light or pH, which dramatically improves the polymer hydrophilicity and facilicates water diffusion into the network. As the growing rate under each stimulation is independently regulated, we successfully developed TCF hydrogels displaying heterogeneous growth accompanied with phototropic bending deformation by taking the advantage of the differential growing rates induced by light and pH. Importantly, the phototropic deformation direction during the growing process can be flexibly switched to be either positive or negative by tuning the light irradiation and pH conditions for applications in replicating the structure and function of natural light-responsive systems. Our work provides a novel molecular design strategy for advancing the development of biomimetic systems with capability of phototropic deformation and self-growth.
Positive Psychology Interventions: A Catalyst for Job Satisfaction, Work Engagement, and Withdrawal Intentions Among Remote-Working Cancer Survivors in Rural Areas
Authors: Renani Hamid Yari , Rahmanian Alireza , Saeidi Zahra , Birashk Behrooz , Saraei Iman , Ghodusi Shirin
Published: February 2025

Background
Advances in cancer treatment have significantly increased the survival rate of cancer patients, but these survivors often face challenges in the workplace. Existing literature highlights the significant influence of cancer on job performance, job satisfaction, and the increased risk of withdrawal intention. However, the effects of positive psychology interventions on cancer survivors, particularly in less urbanized settings and remote worker communities, remain underexplored.
Purpose
This study investigates the effects of positive psychology interventions on job satisfaction, work engagement, and withdrawal intentions among cancer survivors in rural and remote workforce communities.
Methods
A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving 68 cancer survivors. The study used the Minnesota Job Satisfaction Questionnaire, the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, and the Withdrawal Intention Scale to measure outcomes following a 14-session positive psychology intervention. The results revealed statistically significant improvements in the experimental group compared to the control group.
Results
Job satisfaction mean scores increased from 50.23 to 58.94, work engagement mean scores rose from 26.79 to 31.05, and withdrawal intentions mean scores decreased from 48.35 to 39.05. These findings highlight the potential of positive psychology interventions to address the unique challenges faced by cancer survivors in remote workforce communities, particularly in less urbanized areas.
Conclusions
By enhancing job satisfaction and work engagement while reducing withdrawal intentions, these interventions can significantly contribute to the occupational well-being of cancer survivors, advocating for their integration into cancer care and organizational practices.
Reduction of Postpartum Hemorrhage Through Quality Improvement Science
Authors: Cury Giovana Signorelli Astolfi , Negrini Romulo , Santana Eduardo Felix , Campanharo Felipe Favorette
Published: February 2025

Background
Regarding causes of avoidable maternal mortality, Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH) remains in first place in the world and second in Brazil. Considering the latent need for improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to PPH, a multidisciplinary team from Hospital Israelite Albert Einstein (HIAE) developed an Institutional Protocol based on Improvement Science.
Aim
To assess the impact of this protocol on the reduction of maternal morbidity due to postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) within the institution.
Methods
Observational, descriptive, retrospective study comprising all parturient attended during childbirth at HIAE Morumbi unit from January 2017 to December 2021. Data were obtained from the Business Intelligence (BI) information system, with no identification of patients. The examined indicators were evolution of quantity and weight of surgical pads used during childbirth assistance (outcome), adherence rate to the counting and weighing of pads (process) and incidence of unused blood reserves (equilibrium). Exclusion criterion: blood reserves not associated with hemorrhagic complications during childbirth. The statistical analysis was based on execution diagrams that demonstrate the evolution of indicators over short intervals, thereby enabling a temporal evaluation of the implemented strategies’ effects.
Results
Adherence to the counting and weighing of used pads during childbirth exhibited a significant change within the first month of the protocol's implementation. The average quantity and weight of used pads showed a marked and sustained reduction. Beside subsequent use, there was an increase on the average quantity of unused blood reserves.
Conclusion
The process changes engendered by the new protocol have facilitated a reduction in blood loss during the births assisted at the unity over the considered period.
HSMTL-Net: A Multi-Task Learning Framework for Human Segmentation with Integrated Regression and Classification Modules
Authors: Rohani Faezeh , Khobdeh Soroush Babaee
Published: February 2025

Human segmentation is a critical task in computer vision, with many applications in different fields. In this paper, we propose a novel multi-task learning approach, called HSMTL-Net, for human segmentation that incorporates classification and regression tasks along with segmentation. The proposed model is inspired with the U-Net architecture but with less layers and same depth features, which consists of three modules: Seg-Module, Gender-Module, and Seg-Tuner-Module. The Seg-Module performs the segmentation task, while the Gender-Module performs the gender classification task, and the Seg-Tuner-Module performs the tasks that relates to age and other parameters estimation. The proposed approach achieved an exceptional performance for human segmentation, and in addition to that, it includes gender classification and age estimation. Multi-task learning enables the model to learn multiple related tasks simultaneously using shared features and parameters, thereby improving the generalization and efficiency of the model. As a result, the proposed model achieved a Dice score of 97.83% and a mean IoU of 96.21%, which outperformed all previous approaches.
Administration of probiotics and synbiotics and systemic inflammation in Kenyan infants: an open label, randomised, phase II trial
Authors: Otiti Mary Iwaret , June Micah , K’Oloo Alloys , Chomba Miriam , Dodd James , Kiu Raymond , Hall Lindsay , Wang Duolao , Otieno Kephas , Kariuki Simon , Kuile Feiko O. Ter , Allen Stephen
Published: February 2025

Environmental enteric dysfunction (EED) in early life, caused by gut pathogen colonisation, contributes to chronic systemic inflammation (CSI) which impairs growth and organ development and increases non-communicable disease risk. Pro/synbiotics may prevent or ameliorate EED, and thereby reduce CSI, through boosting colonisation resistance against enteropathogens and provide other intestinal and immune benefits. We evaluated three pro/synbiotics consisting of live, multi-strain Bifidobacterium spp. and Lactobacillaceae in reducing CSI. In this open-label, randomised, four-arm, phase II trial, 600 healthy Kenyan newborns (1–3 days old, birthweight ≥2000g) were allocated 1:1:1:1, stratified by HIV exposure, to receive Labinic synbiotic, Lab4b synbiotic or Lab4b probiotic or no intervention daily for ten days, then weekly until six months. The primary outcome was CSI (plasma α1-acid glycoprotein > 1g/L) at six months with blinded laboratory assessments. At six months, CSI occurred in 60/138 (43%) controls versus 4/144 (3%; relative risk (RR) 0.06, 95% CI 0.02–0.17; p < 0.0001) infants in the Labinic synbiotic, 3/132 (2%; RR = 0.05, 0.02–0.16; P < 0.0001) in the Lab4b synbiotic, and 3/141 (2%; RR = 0.05, 0.02–0.15; P < 0.0001) in the Lab4b probiotic arm. Serious adverse events and mortality over 0–24 months were similar across study arms. Pro/synbiotics safely and markedly reduced CSI in this disadvantaged population, warranting investigation of health impacts.
Controlling the morphology transition on MOVPE-grown (100) β-Ga2O3 film between step-flow growth and step-bunching: A machine learning-assisted approach
Authors: Chou Ta-Shun , Anooz Saud Bin , Dropka Natasha , Chen Han-Hsu , Galazka Zbigniew , Albrecht Martin , Fiedler Andreas , Popp Andreas
Published: February 2025

The step-bunching instability in (100) β-Ga₂O₃ films grown via metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE) was investigated using a machine learning approach based on Random Forest (RF). The study reveals the interplay of Ga supersaturation (O2/Ga) and impurity effects as coexisting mechanisms driving the morphological transition (from step-flow growth to step-bunching). The developed machine-learning framework accurately classifies growth morphology and offers valuable insights by correlating theoretical principles with experimental parameters. Critical growth parameters influencing the film morphology were identified. The corresponding strategy, high Ga supersaturation, is proposed to mitigate the step-bunching formation and maintain the desired step-flow growth mode. Despite the challenges posed by small datasets, the RF model demonstrates robust classification performance, establishing machine learning as a powerful tool for experimental science.
Optimal Plant Design Using A Non-Linear Generalized Structured Component Analysis Approach
Authors: Nurudeen Abdulhakeem Hassan , Ugheoke Iyenagbe Benjamin
Published: February 2025

Plant design is essential in improving the performance of a plant, reducing the cost of production, enhancing material handling costs as well as generating a good return on investment. Poorly designed facilities are susceptible to higher production costs and material handling, and inadequate utilization of resources such as This study was conducted to investigate the feasibility of integrating non-linear generalized structured component analysis with systematic layout planning methodology for facility layout design to derive a statistical inference from the combination. The study adopted the non-linear Generalized Structural Component Analysis methodology on a proposed plant layout dehydration of fruits and vegetables. At the end of the study, it was observed that it was possible to adopt non-linear GSCA in plant design to derive meaningful statistical inferences when the ratings were inverted. The study proposes these findings as novel. The transposed rating table results obtained were better than the Initial experiments performed and it’s suggested that when integrating non-linear GSCA to facility design the inverted approach should be adopted. The results also proved that nonlinear generalized structured component analysis is suitable and can be incorporated as a new plant design approach.
Imagery Rescripting and Imaginal Extinction attenuate the Return of Generalized Fear
Authors: Mitra Sharmili , Asthana Manish Kumar
Published: February 2025

Standard extinction (SE) is the most widely implemented intervention for reducing conditioned and generalized fear; however, the possibility of fear return still remains. Hence, novel interventions may be used to augment the efficiency of SE. Imagery rescripting (ImRS), based on the premise of unconditioned stimulus (UCS) devaluation, encompasses the devaluation of the cognitive representation of the UCS in a positive direction. Imaginal extinction (IE), based on the principles of UCS expectancy evaluation, involves vivid imagination of the conditioned stimuli during extinction. In the current study, we compared the efficacy of ImRS over IE and SE in attenuating the return of generalized fear. Seventy-two healthy individuals were randomly assigned to ImRS, IE, or SE groups. Day 1 comprised the fear acquisition and generalization phases. On day 2, the intervention and generalization testing phases were conducted. On day 3, 15 days after acquisition, the return of fear due to spontaneous recovery was assessed. Our study is the first known to compare the efficacy of ImRS and IE in attenuating the return of generalized fear response. We found that ImRS effectively attenuated the return of fear response. Further, the CS valence increased in a positive direction on Day 3. However, the rate of extinction was slower, and the generalized fear response was sustained for the IE group. The findings suggest that distinct mechanisms may be involved in ImRS and IE. ImRS may require a higher level of cognition, inducing novelty due to introducing the positive narrative. ImRS resulted in a competition between the two memories during retrieval, following a dynamic ‘higher route’. On the contrary, the fear responses were sustained in the IE group, showing the possibility of a slow and stagnant ‘lower route’. Hence, ImRS may be a more effective intervention for attenuating the return of generalized fear.
Understanding Autistic Identity Contingencies: The Chain Mediation Effect of Autism Acceptance and Loneliness in Ableist Microaggressions and Social Camouflage
Authors: Guan Siqing , Takahashi Fumito , Wada Makoto , Takashina Hikari N , Ueda Midori , Kawaguchi Yasuo , Kawashima Masamitsu , Kato Takeo , Ogawa Shinichiro , Tsuchiya Kenji , Oshima Fumiyo
Published: February 2025

Ableist microaggressions—subtle forms of disability-based discrimination—serve as a key minority stressor. Amplified by autistic identity contingencies that shape how autistic identity is judged and treated in social contexts, these factors drive social camouflage in autistic adults, compelling them to conceal autistic characteristics for adapting to non-autistic groups, often resulting in negative mental health outcomes. This study proposes a novel Autistic Identity Contingencies Model to explore how autism acceptance and loneliness mediate the relationship between ableist microaggressions and social camouflage. An online survey of 330 autistic adults was conducted, followed by hierarchical multiple regression and chain mediation analyses. Results indicated that, ableist microaggressions positively predicted three social camouflage phenotypes: compensation, masking, and assimilation, with loneliness also predicting assimilation. Furthermore, after controlling for personal attributes, general stress and mental health conditions, less external autism acceptance and loneliness mediated the positive relationship between ableist microaggressions and assimilation, whereas internal autism acceptance showed no significant effect. Assimilation is uniquely shaped by autistic social identity threat and loneliness, distinguishing it from compensation and masking. These findings highlight social camouflage as responses to minority stressors driven by social autistic identity contingencies, rooted in stigmatized behaviors rather than in personal autistic identity.
The high-pressure, vacancy-stabilized component in clinopyroxenes
Authors: Baziotis Ioannis , Ma Chi , Klemme Stephan , Berndt Jasper , Tschauner Oliver , Asimow Paul D.
Published: February 2025

Motivated by the recent discovery of albitic clinopyroxene, we assess the molar volume systematics of vacancy-stabilized, high-pressure clinopyroxenes. Previous assessments used the Ca-Eskola component (Ca0.5□0.5)M2AlM1Si2TO6 (where the empty rectangle symbol denotes a vacancy) as an end-member and were limited to compositions with ≤ 50% vacancies in the M2 site. The discovery of albitic jadeite calls for extension of the solid solution space towards an end member with entirely vacant M2 sites, □M2SiM1Si2TO6, i.e. silica in the C2/c pyroxene structure. Based on our new and compiled data, we fit a model for volumes of clinopyroxenes in an 11-component subsystem. We tested two different scenarios: ideal mixing and symmetric excess volumes. Ideal mixing is easily rejected, as the correlation between vacancy concentration and volume at standard conditions is clearly nonlinear. The symmetric excess volume model, however, yields an adequate fit to the data when using 3 excess terms (Hd-En, Hd-Di, and Hd-Jd). The estimated molar volume of the clinopyroxene-structured silica end member, which has one octahedrally-coordinated silicon atom per formula unit, is 60.77 ± 0.75 cm3/mol on a six-oxygen formula basis, slightly smaller than that of coesite (61.73 cm3/mol) but much larger than that of stishovite (41.44 cm3/mol). We also obtained a molar volume of 62.16 ± 0.75 cm3/mol for the Ca-Eskola component, modestly larger than earlier estimates extrapolated with an ideal mixing assumption from natural samples (60.52 ± 0.73 cm3/mol) or experiments (60.87 ± 0.63 cm3/mol). The proposed volume model provides a partial basis for assessing the formation conditions of vacancy-stabilized pyroxenes.
REFORM IN TEACHER EDUCATION CURRICULUM IN GHANA: UNVEILING THE PERCEPTION OF TUTORS OF COLLEGES OF EDUCATION
Authors:   Department of Educational Management and Policy Studies, Faculty of Education, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana., Musah Abudu Amadu , Wuripe Alhassan ,   Centre for Educational Innovation and Leadership, Faculty of Education, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana., Abdulai Niamatu-Lai ,   Centre for Educational Innovation and Leadership, Faculty of Education, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana.
Published: February 2025

This study examined the perceptions of tutors in Ghanas colleges of education concerning the reformed teacher education curriculum, with a focus on its ability to address the needs of pre-service teachers and meet professional and educational expectations. A quantitative descriptive survey design was employed to collect data from 422 tutors using a validated questionnaire with a Cronbachs alpha of 0.79, indicating high reliability. The data were analysed using a one-sample variance test to evaluate the alignment of tutors perceptions with established curriculum expectations. The findings revealed statistically significant results that tutors perceive the curriculum as aligning with contemporary educational needs (p = 0.028), addressing diverse learner requirements (p = 0.003), and preparing pre-service teachers for future professional careers (p = 0.012). Additionally, tutors expressed dissatisfaction with inadequate teaching and learning resources, particularly ICT tools (p = 0.324), which they considered essential for effective implementation. The study concluded that enhancements to the curriculum should include integrating modules that emphasize holistic development, such as critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence, adopting innovative teaching strategies, ensuring consistent resource provision, and providing professional development for tutors. The study recommended regular updates to the curriculum to ensure alignment with evolving global educational trends, technological advancements, and to maintain its relevance and adaptability. This study contributes to curriculum reform literature by offering insights for policymakers, curriculum developers, and educational institutions to refine teacher education programs, aligning them with global standards and the demands of 21st-century education.
AN OVERVIEW OF THE INTERACTIONS BETWEEN AYURVEDIC HERBS AND PSYCHIATRIC DRUGS
Authors: M.N Shubhashree , Naik Raghavendra , Chandrasekharan Chandini , K.S Arsha
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Ayurvedic drugs are used to treat various medical conditions, including psychiatric diseases (manasika vikaras). Increased awareness about Ayurvedic drugs along with easy availability has lead to the increase in self- medication for many health issues. One among them is the simultaneous intake of psychiatric drugs and herbal medications without any knowledge of the potential interactions between them. A drug interaction occurs when the effect of a drug is altered by the presence of other drugs, herbal supplements, or foods. Herb-Drug interactions are more common than Drug-Drug interactions because herbal medicines contain multiple pharmacological ingredients. Drug interactions between Ayurvedic medicinal herb and Psychiatric drugs can be either synergistic or antagonistic. This can lead to enhanced or diminished effect that may be useful or harmful. The search for drug interaction yields information predominantly pertaining to Western medicine, with limited content on Indian medicinal herbs, especially Ayurvedic medicines. The information of herbs and drugs interaction is incomplete or lacking in detail they affect either the pharmacokinetic fates or pharmaco dynamics activities of drugs, leading to therapeutic failure or toxicities. Hence, this is a humble attempt from the pharmacovigilance perspective to review and create awareness regarding the possible interaction between Ayurvedic herbs and Psychiatric drugs.
RARE CASE OF BUDD-CHIARI SYNDROME (BCS) WITH RIGHT INGUINAL HERNIA: A CASE REPORT
Authors:   Specialist Internal Medicine, Emirates Specialist Hospital- Dubai, UAE., Mohamed Elbahnasawy Rabah , Mohamed Ismail Amer Sobhy ,   Consultant General and Laparoscopic Surgeon, Al Garhoud Hospital - Dubai, UAE., Mohamed Mansour Hanaa ,   Specialist Obstetrician &Gynecologist, MedcareHospital, Sharjah, UAE.
Published: February 2025

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is an uncommon disorder characterized by obstruction of hepatic venous outflow. The obstruction may be thrombotic or non-thrombotic anywhere along the venous course from the hepatic venules to junction of the inferior vena cava (IVC) to the right atrium. Hepatic veno-occlusive disease and cardiac disorders are excluded from this definition. BCS is a heterogeneous clinical condition-it may be curable or potentially lethal.
TO COMPARE THE EFFICACY OF TWO DIFFERENT SOFT TISSUE RELEASE TECHNIQUES IN TREATING INDIVIDUALS WITH TERMINAL SHOULDER FLEXION DYSFUNCTION: A PILOT STUDY
Authors:   PhD Scholar, SBS University, Dehradun., Sharma Ravindra , Arora Maneesh ,   Professor & Dean, SBS University, Dehradun., P. Pandey Dharam ,   HOD, Manipal Hospital, New Delhi.
Published: February 2025

This pilot study aimed to compare the efficacy of two soft tissue release techniques-visceral mobilization of liver ligaments and myofascial release of the pectoralis minor muscle-on terminal shoulder flexion dysfunction. Thirty participants aged 20-40 years with shoulder dysfunction for over three months were randomly assigned to three groups: Group A (control group), Group B (visceral mobilization), and Group C (myofascial release). All groups received conservative physiotherapy. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included pain intensity, range of motion (ROM), pectoralis minor length, and QuickDASH scores. The results demonstrated significant improvements in all outcome measures across all groups (p < 0.05). However, participants in Group B exhibited superior improvement in ROM and functional disability compared to Group C. Both intervention groups outperformed the control group in reducing pain and improving terminal shoulder flexion. The findings highlight that incorporating soft tissue release techniques, particularly visceral mobilization of liver ligaments, enhances the effectiveness of conservative physiotherapy for terminal shoulder dysfunction. Further studies are recommended to validate these findings in larger populations.
SONOGRAPHIC FREQUENCY AND DISTRIBUTION OF BREAST LESIONS IN WOMEN OF LAHORE: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors:   The University of Lahore, Pakistan., Raheem Amna , Khadija Syeda ,   The University of Lahore, Pakistan., Mueen Anum ,   MCPS Trainee, Family Medicine & Community Health, RTEH (Indus Hospital & Health Network), Muzaffargarh, Punjab, Pakistan., Ali Babar ,   The University of Lahore, Pakistan., Ahmad Aneeq ,   Jinnah Hospital Lahore, Pakistan., Awais Wahida ,   The University of Lahore, Pakistan.
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims: Breast cancer is a significant health issue worldwide, and early detection is crucial for effective treatment and management. In Pakistan, breast cancer incidence rates are increasing, and late-stage diagnoses are common. Therefore, it is essential to understand the frequency and types of breast lesions to achieve early detection and management. The primary objective of this study was to find out the sonographic frequency of breast lesions in females of Lahore city.

Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted at Gilani Ultrasound Center Lahore, 185 females of different age groups were enrolled in this study with Non-probability convenient sampling. All asymptomatic and symptomatic females come for breast Ultrasound were included in this study and females with breast cancer were excluded.Ultrasound Machine Xario Z-3272 with a linear probe of high frequency 7-12 MHz was used.

Results: In the study of 185 female patients in Lahore city, 59 (31.9%) had breast lesions. The lesions were most commonly found on the left side (24.3%) and in the upper outer quadrant of the breast (11.4%). Out of 145 married patients, 48 (33.1%) had breast lesions. The majority of patients (70.8%) reported experiencing breast pain, and of these, 39 (29.8%) had breast lesions. Of the 34 patients who were in menopause, 9 (26.5%) had breast lesions. A small number of patients (1.6%) showed dimpling of the breast skin. The results showed that 126 (68.1%) patients had BI-Rads-I findings and 59 (31.9%) had BI-Rads-II findings. The average age of the patients was 34.3568 years with a standard deviation of 11.69830.

Conclusion: This study reveals a high frequency of breast lesions among women in Lahore, with 31.9% of participants presenting with sonographic abnormalities. The majority of lesions were seen on the left side and in the upper outer quadrant, highlighting the importance of comprehensive imaging methods in these areas.The connection of breast lesions with discomfort and menopausal status emphasises the significance of clinical examination in addition to imaging. These findings highlight the importance of early detection with routine breast ultrasonography in lowering the burden of breast illnesses.
Investment preferences of institutional investors in Indonesia: A comparative analysis of pressure-sensitive and pressure-insensitive groups
Authors: Prastowo Darminto Dwi , Mubarok Abdulloh , Ahmar Nurmala
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the investment preferences of institutional investors in Indonesia, focusing on the factors influencing stock selection. A comparative analysis is conducted between pressure-sensitive and pressure-insensitive investor groups to explore how different factors such as corporate social responsibility, corporate governance, shariah-compliant stocks, and financial indicators, including profitability, liquidity, and risk, affect their investment decisions. Data from 938 observations across 253 manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange were analyzed using panel data regression. The period was chosen because it captures a stable economic period in Indonesia, allowing for an accurate assessment of investment patterns without major external shocks. The results reveal that institutional investors favor stocks listed on the Indonesia Shariah Stock Index (ISSI), perceived as low-risk investments. Pressure-sensitive investors, such as banks and insurance companies, prefer companies with close business affiliations, while pressure-insensitive investors, such as mutual funds and pension funds, prioritize financial performance and corporate governance. Additionally, the study finds that the debt-to-asset ratio and inclusion in the Shariah index significantly affect institutional ownership, indicating a preference for leveraged companies with ethical investment profiles. This study provides a deeper understanding of the varying preferences between institutional investor groups, highlighting the significance of ethical considerations, financial stability, and corporate governance in emerging markets.
The role of subnational tax capacity: A path toward regional integration
Authors: Vega Zárate César , Murcia López Leticia
Published: February 2025

The tax capacity exercised by subnational governments in a country is fundamental in shaping the tax and economic system, especially when there is a coordination of interests, such as in the Pacific Alliance. Therefore, the coordination exercised by its member countries – Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru – must be strategically aligned to comprehensively strengthen this Alliance. Considering the above, the objective of this study is to identify the similarities or differences between these four countries, check the tax behaviors of their subnational governments, and assess the degree of their impact on this trade agreement. Based on a longitudinal quantitative methodology, the results reveal significant differences between the subnational collection systems, identifying that Mexico and Peru are the only members that have maintained a similar trend, significantly differentiating themselves from Chile and Colombia. Despite their subnational tax structures, the main finding is that the Pacific Alliance needs to implement more coordinated actions in tax matters to strengthen its economic activities with other countries. A lack of coordination could counteract the commercial and financial strategies presented as a regional bloc, impacting investment, competitiveness, and regional sustainability. Overall, coordinated tax policies within the Pacific Alliance can drive regional integration, contributing to the region’s long-term stability.
Empowering water utilities: Crafting an end-user-friendly reliability ranking for evaluating satellite remote sensing advances through literature insights
Authors: Malthus Timothy J. , Nelli Filippo , Taheriashtiani Negar , Vanrolleghem Peter A. , Crosbie Nicolas D. , Zamyadi Arash
Published: February 2025

Satellite remote sensing provides extensive data for water management, enabling the measurement of hydro-meteorological and environmental variables. It aids in assessing trends, and hydrological conditions and guiding appropriate management actions. Satellite remote sensing serves as a cost-effective supplement to ground-based monitoring infrastructure. Over the past decade, satellite Earth observation technologies have advanced significantly, offering new opportunities for water utilities and agencies. These developments include improved satellite capabilities, enhanced data access, private sector involvement, and advancements in data processing and analytics. However, an end-user-friendly reliability ranking tool for evaluating numerous satellite remote sensing options is needed for operational decision-making purposes. Here, we summarise recent trends and the literature on satellite remote sensing for water management, evaluating its capabilities and available tools, focusing on the routine but essential operation of utilities. A novel assessment of satellite potential implementation to water-related applications using an end-user-friendly reliability ranking process is presented. The study focuses on selected application areas, including catchment monitoring, water demand estimation, flood monitoring, water quality monitoring, farm dam monitoring, urbanization trends, drought forecasting, fire spotting, and post-fire water quality impacts. This paper outlines the operational advantages/limitations of satellite remote sensing and provides recommendations for its adoption.
Application of enhanced coagulation in drinking water treatment from the degraded catchment to reduce NOM: a major DBP precursor
Authors: Hailu Awraris , Sishu Feleke K.
Published: February 2025

The occurrence of dissolved natural organic matter (NOM) in drinking water sources can potentially lead to the formation of disinfection byproducts (DBPs). In regions like the degraded soil of the Ethiopian highlands, which have low humic content, hydrophilic NOM tends to dominate. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of enhanced coagulation in reducing precursors of DBPs in surface water used for drinking purposes. The Angereb reservoir, part of Gonder City's water supply in the Ethiopian highlands, was chosen as the study area. Jar testing was conducted to evaluate the NOM removal efficiency of enhanced coagulation methods using ferric chloride and aluminum sulfate coagulants. Water samples were collected during both dry and wet seasons in 2023. Various parameters, such as total organic carbon (TOC), ultraviolet absorbance at a wavelength of 254 nm (UVA@254), pH, and other water quality indicators, were analyzed. Results revealed that the NOM present was primarily hydrophilic, as anticipated, with specific ultraviolet absorbance values below 2 L/mg−1 m−1. The existing treatment process, which involved prechlorination and coagulation with aluminum sulfate, removed less than 28% of TOC and 14% of UVA@254. However, using ferric chloride-enhanced coagulation achieved a removal efficiency of 50% for both TOC and UVA@254.
INICJACJA I… CO DALEJ? EFEKTYWNOŚĆ FORMACJI EUCHARYSTYCZNEJ DZIECI
Authors: Rayzacher-Majewska Aneta
Published: February 2025

Katecheza inicjacyjna to czas nauki religii i formacji katechetycznej uczniów z klas 1–4szkoły podstawowej. Najważniejszym jej celem jest przygotowanie uczniów do pełnegoudziału we Mszy świętej. Przystąpienie do pierwszej Komunii świętej odbywa się w klasietrzeciej, zatem ostatni rok formacji zakłada katechezę mistagogiczną. W artykuleprzybliża się aktualne założenia programowe katechezy i nauki religii z uwzględnieniemformacji eucharystycznej. Rozpatrzono je z uwzględnieniem trzech funkcji katechezy– dydaktycznej, wychowawczej i inicjacyjnej oraz podstawowych środowisk wychowawczych– rodziny, parafii i szkoły. W kontekście założeń programowych omówiona jesttakże praktyka duszpasterska katechezy inicjacyjnej wraz z próbą oceny efektywnościpodejmowanych działań. Na tym tle została także uwzględniona katecheza mistagogicznapostulowana w dokumentach katechetycznych.
SAKRAMENT POKUTY W KATECHEZIE DOBREGO PASTERZA – ZARYS MISTAGOGII WEDŁUG SOFII CAVALLETTI
Authors: Kielian Andrzej
Published: February 2025

Artykuł ukazuje wtajemniczenie w sakrament pokuty i pojednania w teologii SofiiCavalletti oraz opartej na założeniach pedagogiki Marii Montessori metodzie nauczaniareligii, znanej jako Katecheza Dobrego Pasterza. Spowiedź ukazana jest w kontekście teologiiprzymierza oraz dialogu człowieka z Bogiem. Cavalletti, nawiązując do św. Augustyna,wskazuje trzy aspekty sakramentu pokuty jako dialogu modlitewnego. Są nimi: modlitwaskruchy, modlitwa prośby, modlitwa uwielbienia. Zbliżone ujęcie prezentuje kard. CarloM. Martini. Po prezentacji ram teoretycznych, wymienione zostały podstawowe wątkikatechezy dzieci w wieku 3–6 i 6–9 lat, mające na celu wprowadzenie ich w przeżywaniesakramentu pokuty i pojednania, wykorzystując wybrane metafory biblijne. Na zakończenienastępuje dyskusja, uwzględniająca głos Josepha Ratzingera – papieża Benedykta XVI,który rozszerza perspektywę o możliwości i wyzwania stojące obecnie przed katecheządorosłych i wtajemniczeniem w sakrament pokuty i pojednania.
KATECHEZA RODZICÓW DZIECI PIERWSZOKOMUNIJNYCH DUSZPASTERSKĄ SZANSĄ NA ZAANGAŻOWANIE MŁODYCH MAŁŻEŃSTW WE WSPÓLNOCIE PARAFIALNEJ
Authors: Brzeziński Dominik
Published: February 2025

Artykuł omawia znaczenie katechezy skierowanej do rodziców dzieci pierwszokomunijnychjako szansy na pogłębienie więzi z parafią oraz większe zaangażowanie młodych małżeństww życie wspólnoty parafialnej. Autor podkreśla, że aby umocnić świadectwo wiaryrodziców, katecheza powinna być przestrzenią dialogu, a nie tylko formą przekazywaniasuchej wiedzy. Rodzice są bardzo ważnymi uczestnikami procesu katechetycznego, jednakwspółczesne wyzwania kulturowe i społeczne utrudniają nieraz proces przekazywaniawiary. Parafialna katecheza ma zatem szansę stać się szkołą wiary, w której rodziny mogąpogłębiać swoje rozumienie Eucharystii. W artykule została podkreślona także potrzebaprzygotowania katechetów do nowoczesnych i dynamicznych form pracy, uwzględniającychwsparcie wspólnoty przez organizowanie spotkań katechetycznych, które integrująrodziny i budują nowe relacje w parafii.
Efeitos da administração de diferentes protocolos anestésicos na eletroejaculação de cutias (dasyprocta leporina linneaus, 1753)
Authors:   , Lima Amara Gyane Alves de
Published: February 2025

Objetivou-se avaliar diferentes protocolos anestésicos para a realização de eletroejaculação de cutias (Dasyprocta leporina), visando indicar qual melhor se adequa para obtenção de espermatozoides e que seja capaz de conferir condições de analgesia aos animais. Utilizou-se dez machos sexualmente maduros e cada indivíduo passou aleatoriamente por quatro protocolos anestésicos: xilazina/cetamina (G1); xilazina/cetamina/epidural (G2); meperidina/azaperone/xilazina/cetamina/ epidural (G3) e dexmedetomidina/cetamina (G4). Avaliou-se: frequência cardíaca, respiratória, pressão arterial sistólica, diastólica, e média, temperatura, período de latência de indução e recuperação anestésica. Em relação aos parâmetros reprodutivos, avaliou-se a ereção, o ciclo de estimulação que ocorreu a ejaculação e as variáveis seminais. Os dados de parâmetros fisiológicos foram analisados por ANOVA (Two Way ANOVA RM) para medidas repetidas, seguida do teste de Tukey. Já o perfil do sêmen foi analisado, quando paramétricos, por ANOVA (One Way ANOVA RM) para medidas repetidas seguidas por Tukey. P < 0,05 foram considerados significativos. O grupo G4 apresentou menor média para latência de indução, levando (3,16 ± 2,04 minutos) para se colocar em decúbito lateral e permitir a manipulação. Presença de espermatozoides foi observada em 30% dos ejaculados dos animais do G1, 20% do G4, 10% do G2. Já o grupo G3 não forneceu ejaculado com espermatozoides. O G1 propiciou sêmen com concentração espermática (270,0 ± 200 x 106) e motilidade (95,0 ± 0,0) significativamente maior do que o G4. Todos os animais se recuperaram em média 2 horas após a indução anestésica de forma satisfatória. Os protocolos anestésicos permitiram a realização do procedimento de eletroejaculação, no entanto, os grupos G2 e G4 mantiveram melhor as funções vitais, indicando melhor analgesia.
Avaliação in vitro e in vivo da compatibilidade sanguínea entre muares, equinos e asininos
Authors:   , Firmino Paulo Ricardo
Published: February 2025

Os muares são animais híbridos resultado do acasalamento entre as espécies equina (Equus caballus) e asinina (Equus asinus). Assim como qualquer outro equídeo utilizado no trabalho doméstico e para esportes, os muares estão sujeitos a acidentes, traumas e doenças que provocam perdas sanguíneas. Na literatura sobre transfusão em grandes animais não existe nenhum trabalho que aborde a compatibilidade sanguínea ou a transfusão na espécie muar, sendo uma incógnita a possibilidade de transfusão heteróloga para esta espécie. No presente trabalho avaliou-se a compatibilidade sanguínea entre receptores muares e doadores das espécies equina, asinina e muar através de reações cruzadas de compatibilidade e avaliação transfusional. Na primeira fase foi investigada a compatibilidade in vitro através de testes de reação cruzada, maior e menor, onde 12 muares receptores foram testados com cinco exemplares de cada espécie. A segunda fase consistiu na avaliação da compatibilidade in vivo através de transfusão de sangue homólogo e heterólogo para espécie muar, onde nove muares foram divididos em 3 grupos, e cada grupo recebeu sangue de uma das três espécies. Dados das reações cruzadas foram analisados pelos testes de Kruskal-Wallis e Qui-Quadrado de Pearson, e das transfusões por analise de variância de duas vias, seguido dos testes de Tukey e de Bonferoni para avaliar diferenças entre grupos e os tempos, a 5% de significância, respectivamente. Observou-se 76% de compatibilidade na reação maior para asininos, 51,7% para equinos e 71,7% para muares, com escores médios de aglutinação de 0,42, 1,20 e 0,60, respectivamente. Já na reação menor foi observada compatibilidade de 18,3% para asininos, 45% para equinos e 73,3% para os muares, com escores médios de aglutinação de 2,20, 1,17 e 0,47, respectivamente. Dois animais apresentaram fasciculações compatíveis com RNHF, mas não houve alterações nos parâmetros clínicos, hemogasométricos e bioquímicos que indicassem hemólise em nenhum grupo. Reação positiva no teste maior pós-transfusional do receptor contra seu doador ocorreu em média de 4 dias para equinos, 3,3 para asininos e 5,3 para os muares. A terapia transfusional com sangue heterólogo equino e asinino, em uma primeira transfusão, demonstrou ser compatível e segura, quando realizado o teste de reação cruzada.
Estudo paramétrico da inserção de estrutura do tipo dgs com geometria baseada em metamaterial do tipo setr (split equilateral triangle resonator) aplicada em antenas de microfita
Authors:   , Araújo João Kleber Lima de
Published: February 2025

Os sistemas de comunicação sem fio (Wireless) vêm se desenvolvendo constantemente devido a demanda de velocidades de transmissão de dados mais elevados, serviços em diversas frequências e aplicações. Assim, são necessárias implementações a partir de estudos paramétricos, de novos métodos e dispositivos capazes de atender o aumento da versatilidade, confiabilidade e escalabilidade desta tecnologia. Nesta perspectiva, este trabalho apresenta um estudo paramétrico de perda de retorno, frequência de ressonância e largura de banda, diagrama de radiação, densidade de fluxo de corrente, carta de Smith e VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio), em antenas de microfita com alterações no plano de terra, formando estruturas DGS (Defected Ground Structures), a partir da inserção de elementos SETR (Split Equilateral Triangle Resonator) modeladas no software HFSS® para simulações e fabricadas para medições no VNA (Vector Network Analyzer) modelo Rohde & Schwarz® ZND. Com isto, foram feitas comparações entre os resultados simulados e medidos, para análises e comprovação dos métodos e materiais, utilizados e fabricados. Os resultados apontaram que as antenas obtiveram vários modos ressonantes, nas faixas comumente utilizadas em telecomunicações para comunicações móveis e tecnologia 5G, entre 2,2GHz – 2,35GHz e 3,5GHz – 4,1GHz
Prevalence and Demographic Correlates of Social Anxiety Disorder among Medical Students at Sultan Qaboos University: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Kadhim Rania , Al Azri Mohammed , Al Lawati Abdullah , Al Sinawi Hamed
Published: February 2025

Introduction and Objective:

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is an excessive and irrational fear of social situations, leading to an avoidance of those situations. Individuals with
SAD may fear acting in a certain way or exhibiting anxiety symptoms in front of others, which can significantly impact their daily functioning and
quality of life. Among medical students, SAD can negatively influence academic performance, particularly in exams, and lead to employment
difficulties. The COVID-19 pandemic introduced unique stressors, including social isolation and the transition to online learning, which may have
exacerbated anxiety-related conditions. Understanding the prevalence and associated factors of SAD during this period is essential to develop
targeted interventions for students. Thus, this work aimed to assess the prevalence and demographic correlates of SAD among medical students at
the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) in Oman during the pandemic.

Methods:

A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted from September to October 2020 in SQU, College of Medicine and Health Sciences.
Medical students from all academic years were invited to complete demographic data and the Liebowitz social anxiety scale (LSAS). The LSAS is
a 24-item self-rating scale to assess SAD. An analysis using a Chi-square test was performed to obtain the factors associated with SAD.

Results:

A total of 558 students completed the questionnaire, of which 348 were female (62%). The total prevalence of SAD was 64%, whereas moderate
grade SAD accounted for 27% of the participants, marked grade 19%, severe grade 11%, and very severe grade 7%. Among the students who had
the disorder, 71% suffered a generalized subtype of SAD. A significant association between SAD and phase of study (p<0.001), age group
(p<0.001), and gender (p<0.001) was found. Phase 1 (69%) exhibited the highest prevalence, followed by phase 2 (66%) and phase 3 (48%).
Among the age groups, 17-19 years group (67%) demonstrated the highest prevalence, followed by age groups 20-22 (64%) and 23-25 (46%). In
terms of gender, females (70%) were more likely to display SAD symptoms than males (52%).

Conclusion:

The results of this study indicated a high prevalence of SAD among medical students and showed a significant association between SAD and the
phase of study, age group, and gender. These results could help justify the establishment of targeted mental health interventions to support medical
students in managing their anxiety, which can ultimately result in an improvement in their academic performance and overall quality of life.
University administrators and psychologists should aim to develop supportive programs for students.