bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regional Inclusive Green Growth in Indonesia
Authors: Asyrof Rifqi Aqil , Rizaldi Muhammad
Published: February 2025

This research develops a regional framework for inclusive green growth in Indonesia and assesses the efficiency of government expenditure in driving it. Using cross-sectional data from 33 provinces in 2021, the study constructs an Inclusive Green Growth Index (IGGI) based on economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability, following the Asian Development Bank’s framework. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is employed to evaluate government spending efficiency. This study fills a research gap by providing a standardized tool to measure economic inclusivity and sustainability at the regional level. Additionally, it introduces a novel approach by analyzing budget efficiency in promoting inclusive green growth across provinces. Findings reveal significant regional disparities, with Papua and Nusa Tenggara Barat lagging while Kalimantan Timur and DKI Jakarta lead. Inefficient government spending is identified as a key factor, though some regions, such as East Kalimantan and East Java, demonstrate better resource utilization. This research contributes by encouraging local governments to integrate IGGI into policy planning. The index helps the central government identify regional disparities and formulate equitable development strategies. Additionally, it emphasizes optimizing government financing for inclusive and sustainable economic programs, providing insights for improving policy effectiveness.
Big Data and Satellite Imagery for Energy Efficiency Mapping in Indonesia:
Authors: Afrianto Firman , Salsabillah Andini Putri , Hariyanto Annisa Dira
Published: February 2025

In the sophisticated realm of big data, analyzing energy efficiency in Indonesia has become crucial for identifying savings opportunities. This study utilizes large-scale raster data, including CO2 emissions from the OCO-2 GEOS satellite, nocturnal satellite images from VIIRS, and demographic and infrastructural data from WorldPOP and EsriWorld Cover. Through advanced regression techniques in machine learning—Support Vector Regression, Artificial Neural Network, and particularly Random Forest—the research analyzes and forecasts energy efficiency across various Indonesian provinces. The analysis highlights a notable increase in CO2 emissions from 2019 to 2023, with a significant reduction in night-time light emissions in 2020 due to the pandemic, which temporarily decreased human activities. Despite these fluctuations, the continuous increase in population density and built-up areas underscores the persistent influence of urbanization on emissions. The Random Forest model, which provided the most accurate predictions, indicates an expected rise in total CO2 emissions until 2030, driven by urbanization and economic growth, followed by a decline by 2045 due to targeted governmental policies. These insights contribute significantly to understanding the distribution of energy efficiency and support the development of sustainable energy policies in Indonesia. The study not only enriches scientific literature but also guides policy-making, offering a framework for tailored energy efficiency improvements. This research marks a pivotal advancement in utilizing big data and satellite technology to optimize energy use in a context that was previously underexplored.
Accounting and Taxation of E-Commerce: Realities and Challenges
Authors:   National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Shevchuk Kateryna , Kuzyk Nataliia ,   National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Boyarova Olena ,   National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: February 2025

The rapid development of information technologies has led to the transformation of traditional approaches to doing business and the formation of a separate type of economic activity – electronic commerce. The article aims to reveal the features of accounting and taxation of e-commerce and identify problematic aspects and challenges associated with digitalizing business processes in this area. The study’s results indicate that differences between
e-commerce and traditional commercial activity types impact the accounting organization. The practical organization of accounting for e-commerce is of great importance for transparent taxation, and its optimization using digital tools is a key factor in increasing the competitiveness of enterprises in modern conditions. While small businesses can use simple cloud-based CRM systems, medium and large companies prefer ERP systems that integrate with online marketplaces, offer business analytics and inventory management, and contain built-in financial reports to control expenses and income. The digitalization of accounting and settlement operations, especially in martial law conditions, is accompanied by challenges (risks of power and Internet outages, technological failures, and cyberattacks). Therefore, e-commerce entities must use backup offline mechanisms and autonomous communication systems to ensure uninterrupted settlement. The article analyzes existing software products for accounting automation, considering the scale of the business and taxation requirements. It provides separate criteria for choosing solutions that can be useful for the accounting practice of e-commerce by various business entities – from individual entrepreneurs to medium-sized and large businesses. A comparative analysis of settlement transaction registrars indicates the need to integrate accounting systems with mechanisms for taxing settlement transactions. The features of disclosing in accounting the costs of creating and operating an online store website and other accounting and tax aspects presented in the article form a better understanding of the organizational principles of e-commerce in Ukraine under martial law.
ЗАСТОСУВАННЯ ТЕХНОЛОГІЙ ШТУЧНОГО ІНТЕЛЕКТУ ДЛЯ НАВЧАННЯ МАЙБУТНІХ ПРАВНИКІВ НА ПРИКЛАДІ CHATGPT: ПЕДАГОГІЧНИЙ, ПРАВОВИЙ І ТЕХНОЛОГІЧНИЙ АСПЕКТИ
Authors: Заярний Олег , Ілларіонова Світлана
Published: February 2025

У статті досліджені  окремі педагогічні, правові і технологічні особливості навчання майбутніх правників з використанням штучного інтелекту на прикладі ChatGPT. З урахуванням функціональних властивостей ChatGPT розроблено ефективні підходи до інтеграції ШІ у процеси практичної підготовки майбутніх правників, спрямовані на розвиток загальних і спеціальних компетентностей відповідно до національних стандартів юридичної освіти та потреб юридичної практики.
У статті досліджено офіційні визначення ШІ та властивості цієї технології з позицій оцінки її придатності для навчання майбутніх правників.
Авторами розроблено систему критеріїв, якими науково-педагогічним працівникам слід керуватися при прийнятті рішення щодо використання ChatGPT для викладанні конкретної навчальної дисципліни. Також наголошено на необхідності розробки коротких інструкцій з використання вказаної технології для виконання конкретних практичних завдань як невід’ємної складової робочих навчальних програм з юридичних дисциплін. З метою ілюстративної демонстрації переваг цих інструкцій у статті наведені практичні приклади їх застосування. Також у статті проаналізовані окремі особливості реалізації авторських прав на тексти, створені штучним інтелектом, надано рекомендації щодо умов оцінки цих текстів у навчальному процесі. Поряд з цим у роботі запропоновано рекомендації з формулювання закладами вищої освіти внутрішніх правил відповідального застосування штучного інтелекту для практичної підготовки майбутніх правників.
Для досягнення поставленої мети дослідження авторами запропоновано систему загальних і спеціальних професійних компетентностей майбутніх правників з урахуванням особливостей здобуття юридичної освіти на першому та другому освітніх рівнях вищої освіти.  У роботі наведені приклади завдань для практичного контролю, які запропоновані ChatGPT, надано їм експертну оцінку щодо відповідності завданням підготовки майбутніх правників.
У висновках виокремлено основні умови ефективного застосування ChatGPT для практичної підготовки майбутніх правників, визначено напрями подальших наукових досліджень з питань, порушених у цій статті.
Changes in schistosomiasis prevalence after 2 years of an integrated intervention in the Itilima district of Tanzania
Authors: Mazigo Humphrey , Lee Jungim , Cho Yoonho , Cha Seungman , Jin Yan
Published: February 2025

Schistosomiasis remains one of the most prevalent neglected tropical diseases in Tanzania. World Vision Tanzania, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health through the National Neglected Tropical Diseases Control Programme, implemented school- and community-based mass drug administrations, community-led total sanitation, and community voice and action from 2020 to 2022. This study assessed changes in the prevalence of schistosomiasis in the Itilima district of northwestern Tanzania following the implementation of these integrated interventions. A total of 1,405 students from 22 schools participated in the baseline survey in August to September 2020, and 1,320 in September 2022. Additionally, 368 adults from 8 villages participated in the baseline survey, and 401 in the endline survey. The prevalence difference was calculated to assess changes before and after the integrated interventions. We also investigated risk factors for Schistosoma haematobium infection using endline data. The prevalence difference between 2020 and 2022 was -20.0% (95% confidence interval (CI)=-22.2%–-17.7%, p<0.001) for students and -19.6% (95% CI=-22.2%–-17.7%, p<0.001) for adults. Individuals without a latrine were more likely to have schistosomiasis (adjusted odds ratio=5.9, 95% CI=1.7–21.5, p=0.01) compared to those who had a latrine. The findings indicate substantial changes in schistosomiasis prevalence in the study area following the implementation of integrated interventions. To sustain these achievements in Itilima, a multi-sectorial approach is highly recommended to integrate additional measures for eliminating schistosomiasis as a public health problem.
Complex pathways to understanding socioeconomic inequalities in health and health behavior
Authors:   , Mudd Andrea Lin
Published: February 2025

The research presented in this thesis contributes to our understanding of complex pathways to socioeconomic inequalities in health and health behavior in adulthood in Western high-income countries. Investigations of specific, theory-based pathways and a broader understanding of the complex system underlying socioeconomic inequalities in health provided insights into the nuanced ways in which the different types of resources individuals have access to (economic, social, cultural) shape their ability to act and their health and health behavior.
A few main findings were that mechanisms may be behavior-specific, meaning that different types of resources are important for different health behaviors, broader social structures directly impact the specific contexts individuals inhabit and should be considered in research on this topic, and there is likely a reinforcing process between the resources individuals have access to and their ability to act over time.
Based on my work, I see opportunities to incorporate more key properties of a complex systems perspective (e.g., feedback loops) into regression-based studies, to integrate more theory into complex systems work, and for complex systems models to inform the pathways we investigate using regression-based methods. My findings do not point to straightforward solutions to address socioeconomic inequalities in health, though these may not be the types of solutions we should be seeking. Instead, understanding how individuals are actively, autonomously able to act in ways that impact their health, within the constraints of their resources, societal structures, and the paradigm governing their complex worlds requires in-depth engagement with those individuals and with the complex system as a whole.
ANALISIS KESELAMATAN DAN EVALUASI RISIKO KECELAKAAN: STUDI KASUS KERUSAKAN DERMAGA AKIBAT KEPUTUSAN OLAH GERAK DI PELABUHAN XYZ
Authors: Maulidia Dian , Ardani Maskur Faris , Sulistiawati Sheila , Narantaka Narantaka , Maruf Maruf
Published: February 2025

This study aims to analyze the factors that cause damage to the XYZ Port dock on March 10, 2024 due to ship maneuvering decisions in extreme weather. The method used is qualitative with fishbone analysis technique, this analysis leads to an in-depth understanding of the factors that are interrelated and trigger accidents. The results of the analysis showed that the main causal factor was the captain's decision, the limitations of the navigation system and the lack of coordination were the main factors that contributedto this incident. The impact of the quay damage was material loss and disruption of port operations. The XYZ Port dock accident is an important reminder for all relevant parties to increase focus on the safety aspects of shipping. By understanding the causal factors and implementing effective preventive measures, it is hoped that similar accidents can be avoided and the safety of all parties involved in maritime activities can be guaranteed.
SYNTHESIS AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF LIQUID CRYSTALLINE COMPOSITES OF CADMIUM CAPRYLATE WITH CdSе NANOPARTICLES
Authors: Mirnaya Tatiana , Yaremchuk Galina
Published: February 2025

The conditions for the synthesis of CdSе nanoparticles in ionic liquid crystal melts based on cadmium caprylate have been studied depending on the method of introducing selenide ions (selenourea) into the reaction medium, the reaction time and temperature. Glassy li­quid crystal composites of cadmium caprylate with monodisperse CdSе nanoparticles of various sizes have been obtained. It has been shown that the electronic absorption and fluo­rescence spectra of the obtained composites are related to the size of CdSе nanoparticles, i.e. they demonstrate a quantum-size effect.
It was found that the size of CdSe NPs depends on the synthesis temperature, but practically does not depend on the reaction time. The optimal duration of the synthesis is 2 hours: at 100 °С, you can get CdSe nanoparticles with a size of 1 ± 0.2 nm, at 180 °С – 2 ± 0.2 nm, and at 220 °С – 3 ± 0.2 nm.
A characteristic feature of the absorption spectra of obtained nanocomposites is the dua­lity of the exitonic absorption band maxima, which indicates a special quasi-two-dimensional electronic structure of the synthesized nanoparticles. In this case, the first short-wave absorption peak can be due to the electronic transition from the energy level of the valence band of light holes to the energy level of the conduction band, and the second peak is associated with the same transition of heavier holes.
It was found that fluorescence spectra of the nanocomposites studied have narrow short-wave and wide long-wave regions. The first maxima refer to exciton fluorescence, while it should be noted that the values of the Stokes shift and the half-width of the band are insignificant, which indicate the monodispersity of the sizes of the obtained nanoparticles. The broad long-wavelength band of luminescence refers to impurity luminescence and is caused by the presence of surface traps that bind electron-hole pairs and, thus, cause intense non-radiative trap luminescence. At the same time, with an increase in the size of nanoparticles, the contribution of non-radiative luminescence decreases, which can be explained, in our opinion, both by a decrease in the specific surface area of CdSe NPs and, in part, by an increase in the degree of crystallinity of NPs due to an increase in the temperature of their synthesis.
PENGEMBANGAN MEDIA DAKON MATEMATIKA MATERI FPB DPENGEMBANGAN MEDIA DAKON PADA PEMBELAJARAN MATEMATIKA UNTUK SISWA SEKOLAH DASARAN KPK UNTUK SISWA KELAS 4 DI SDN SUKOSARI
Authors: Aliyah Ana Imroatul , Dwi Rochmania Desty
Published: February 2025

This study aims to develop the dakon media as a learning aid for teaching FPB dan KPK materials to elementary school students. Dakon media was chosen because of its potential to make learning more interactive and enjoyable, thus enhancing students understanding of mathematical concepts that are often considered difficult. The development of this mathematical dakon media uses the Borg and Gall Research and Development (R&D) model. There are 10 steps: identifying potentials and problems, collecting information, product design, design validation, design revision, product trial, product revision, usage trial, final product revision, and mass production. The needs analysis results indicate that students have never used dakon media in mathematic learning, and the absence of suitable media makes it difficult for them to understand the concepts of FPB dan KPK. The developed dakon media was validated by subject matter experts and media experts to ensure its feasibility as a learning tool. Product testing was conducted on fourth grade students at SDN Sukosari Jogoroto. The results of the mathematical dakon media development showed that the percentage obtained from media expert validators was 94,12%. The percentage result from subject matter expert validators was 88,33%, furthermore, the teacher trial result was 91,34%. A small group trial was conducted with 5 students, resulting in a percentage of 92,69%, while the fields trial conducted with 15 students yielded a percentage of 93,58%. Based on the overall data analysis, it can be concluded that the development of mathematical dakon media is suitable for use as a mathematics learning tool in elementary schools.
The Network of Cosmic Systems keeps the Universe as Stable
Authors: Annamalai Chinnaraji
Published: February 2025

The distance between any two consecutive systems in the universe remains unchanged in any direction; otherwise, the systems can collide with each other over the period of time. As a result. the universe with its star systems is stable.
The ABS Formula: A Deterministic Model for Predicting Prime Gaps
Authors: Aabidi El Moussati Abdeslam
Published: February 2025

The ABS Formula (Adaptive Bound Sequence for Prime Numbers) is a deterministic approach to predicting prime gaps with high accuracy, even for ultra-large primes up to 10^18 . Unlike traditional probabilistic models like Cramér's Conjecture and the Hardy-Littlewood Conjecture, the ABS Formula provides a zero-error prediction through a refined logarithmic function and correction terms. The model has been validated through extensive data and offers insights into the distribution of primes, achieving superior scalability and predictive power.
Diffusion of Mobile Point of Sales among Small Enterprises in a Metropolis in Northeast Nigeria
Authors: Utulu Samuel Chiedu , Dzamar Hyelda , Hammani Aisha Lami
Published: February 2025

Stakeholders need to understand the factors influencing the diffusion of mobile point of sale (mPOS) among small enterprises in socio-economically unstable developing contexts. Consequently, the study was conducted in a metropolis in Northeast Nigeria given that it provides a good example of a socio-economically unstable developing context. The inductive reasoning and inferring approach, and subtle realist ontology were used to inform the study. The approach and ontology were combined with the methodological and epistemological assumptions postulated in the constructionist grounded theory. The small enterprises and the people studied, namely, small enterprise owners were selected using the purposive, convenience and snowball sampling techniques. The unstructured in depth interview and participatory observation were adopted as the data collection techniques. The thematic data analysis technique was used to analyze the data collected for the study. The study findings show how socio-technical factors influenced mPOS diffusion among small enterprises and how the factors influenced the extent mPOS served as a means and end to sustainable development in the research context. We conclude that new theoretical insights were derived from the study and recommend that more studies be conducted to provide more information on mPOS diffusion and how it promotes sustainable development.
Environmental, social, and governance communication and actions in Thailand: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Pimpa Nattavud
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors have become essential considerations for businesses seeking long-term sustainability and stakeholder trust. Effective ESG communication and disclosure practices are critical in demonstrating corporate commitment to sustainability. This study examines how the top 20 companies listed on the Thailand Stock Exchange communicate and disclose ESG-related information, with a focus on their integration of ESG metrics into business strategies.

Methods

This research employs a qualitative approach, utilizing secondary data from sustainability and ESG reports published by the selected companies. Thematic analysis is applied to identify and categorize key ESG activities and disclosure practices, providing a structured assessment of how businesses articulate their ESG commitments.

Results

The analysis identifies five key themes in ESG communication and disclosure: (1) comprehensive ESG disclosure and reporting, (2) environmental initiatives, (3) employee welfare, (4) governance and risk management, and (5) community development. These themes highlight the diverse approaches taken by companies to integrate ESG factors into their business models and public reporting.

Discussion

The findings underscore the importance of transparent ESG disclosure in enhancing corporate sustainability and stakeholder engagement. Companies that effectively integrate ESG considerations can mitigate risks, identify new business opportunities, and align with global sustainability standards. While the relationship between ESG practices and financial performance remains complex, existing literature suggests that strong ESG commitments can lead to long-term financial benefits. This study provides practical recommendations for Thai businesses to enhance their ESG communication strategies and strengthen their sustainability efforts.
Accuracy of attribute estimation in the crossed random effects linear logistic test model: impact of Q-matrix misspecification
Authors: Chen Yi-Hsin , Li Isaac Y. , Cao Chunhua , Wang Yan
Published: February 2025

A simulation study is designed to explore the accuracy of attribute parameter estimation in the crossed random effects linear logistic test model (CRELLTM) with the impact of Q-matrix misspecification on attribute parameter estimation using the SAS® GLIMMIX procedure with a scaling constraint on item parameter. In addition, the impact of the interactions of Q-matrix misspecification with other manipulated factors, such as population distribution, sample size, and Q-matrix density, on parameter estimation is also investigated. The results indicated that misspecification type and percent have a considerable impact on the bias and root mean squared error of attribute estimates, especially under the conditions of high percent misspecification and over-misspecification. However, attribute correlation between the estimated and true parameters is not affected by misspecification type and percent. Other manipulated variables have no impact or interaction effects with Q-matrix misspecifications on attribute estimates. Since the Q-matrix is an indispensable element in applying the crossed random effects linear logistic test model, specifying an appropriate Q-matrix is a crucial task and must be completed with generous assistance from content and subject experts.
The impact of religious education in mitigating the effects of family environment on students' mental health
Authors: Shodiq Sadam Fajar , Makrufi Anisa Dwi , Dahliyana Asep , Valencia Nadira Putri , Nurunisa Fadhila Aisyah , Goselfa Limason
Published: February 2025

The mental health of students is a significant issue, particularly in the face of the difficulties posed by a complicated familial setting. The significance of religious education in mitigating the impact of the family environment on students' mental health is gaining prominence, particularly in major Indonesian cities like Surabaya, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Bandung. This study encompassed a total of 498 senior high school students residing in four major cities in Indonesia. The association between family environment, religious education, and students' mental health was assessed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and the bootstrapping approach for data analysis. The findings indicated that religion education had a crucial role as a moderator in the relationship between family environment and the mental health of pupils. Religious education enhanced students' ability to withstand pressure from an unsupportive familial context and had a beneficial impact on students' mental health. This study emphasizes the significance of incorporating religious education inside the family as a means of promoting students' mental health. The practical implication of this study is the creation of educational programs that prioritize enhancing religious values inside the family as a strategic measure to enhance the mental health of pupils.
Association between residence at birth and addiction service utilization: a spatial analysis of the Massachusetts birth record cohort
Authors: Xia Yingjing , Villanueva Carolina , Vieira Verónica M.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Substance use disorders impact a significant portion of the US population. Exposure to neighborhood environment early in life may contribute to disparities in policing, health outcomes and access to treatment for substance use disorders. Although many studies have examined the relationship between neighborhood context and substance use, few studies have accounted for the spatial distribution of substance use and social environment. The current study examined the association between birth address and substance addiction service utilization of individuals born in communities around the New Bedford Harbor Superfund site in southeast Massachusetts that face potential racial, socioeconomic, and environmental stressors.

Methods

The analysis utilized birth record data between January 1992 and December 1998 (N = 12,151) from the Registry of Vital Records and Statistics with follow-up for substance addiction service utilization through June 2022 by the Bureau of Substances Addiction Services within the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MADPH). We used generalized additive models (GAM) with a smooth for location to estimate local odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of substance addiction service utilization while adjusting for sociodemographic risk factors to identify important contributors to geographic disparities.

Results

We found that birth addresses were significantly associated with substance addiction service utilization as a young adult (p = 0.037), with the highest statistically significant risk located closest to the harbor (OR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.00, 2.02). Family education and prenatal care payer were significant predictors (p < 0.001) of substance addiction services use and strong spatial confounders.

Discussion

The current study showed that significant associations between birth addresses and substance addiction service utilization later in life are primarily driven by socioeconomic predictors including family education and prenatal care payer.
Liver-draining portal lymph node responds to enteric nematode infection by generating highly parasite-specific follicular T helper and B cell responses
Authors: Adjah Joshua , D. Musimbi Zaneta , Mugo Robert M. , Midha Ankur , Hartmann Susanne , Rausch Sebastian
Published: February 2025

Introduction

While research on the gut-liver axis in non-communicable liver diseases has expanded exponentially, few studies have investigated the liver-gut relationship in the context of gastrointestinal nematode infections. This study aimed to determine whether liver-draining lymph nodes (LLNs) contribute to the immune response against a strictly enteric nematode infection.

Methods

We analyzed the cellular and functional immune responses in the portal (PLN) and celiac (CLN) liver-draining lymph nodes following infection with the small intestinal nematode Heligmosomoides (polygyrus) bakeri (H. bakeri). The composition of dendritic cells and CD4+ T cell subsets in LLNs was compared to the mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN), the primary draining site of gut infections. Additionally, we examined Th2 effector cell expansion, plasmablast generation, and B cell activation across these lymphoid sites.

Results

Both PLN and CLN exhibited increased cellularity at d14 post-infection. The immune profile in CLN closely resembled that of MLN, characterized by a robust expansion of GATA-3+ Th2 effector cells at days 6 and 14 post-infection. This was accompanied by an early plasmablast response, producing low-affinity IgG1 antibodies targeting immune-dominant excretory-secretory (ES) products. In contrast, PLN showed weaker Th2 responses and lower early plasma cell responses compared to MLN and CLN. However, PLN displayed strong follicular T helper (TFH) activity, with a B cell profile biased toward germinal center reactions. This led to high-affinity IgG1 antibodies specifically binding VAL-1 and ACE-1.

Discussion

These findings demonstrate, for the first time, that liver-draining lymph nodes actively participate in the adaptive immune response to enteric nematode infections. While MLN and CLN function synergistically in generating early Th2 effector cells and rapid extrafollicular IgG1+ plasma cell responses, PLN specializes in TFH-driven germinal center reactions and affinity maturation.
Evaluation of the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients admitted to intensive care units after the Kahramanmaras (Türkiye) earthquake: a multicenter observational study
Authors: Halacli Burcin , Guven Goksel , Kaya Esat Kivanc , Yildirim Mehmet , Bulut Yuksel Nihal Deniz , Kocak Gamze , Bulut Kadir , Gulen Derful , Erdemir Sullu Begum , Kilicaslan Banu , Seven Asir Eren , Gemcioglu Emin , Simsek Meltem , Yuksel Recep Civan , Temel Sahin , Kaynar Ahmet Safa , Deveci Kamil , Alptekinoglu Mendil Nilgun , Aydin Emre , Ulger Birkan , Esmaoglu Aliye , Boyaci Dundar Nazlihan , Ortac Ersoy Ebru , Gundogan Kursat , Akinci Seda Banu , Topeli Arzu
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The outcomes of patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) after earthquakes that occurred on the 6th of February 2023 in Türkiye are unknown. Our objective was to delineate the demographic and clinical characteristics, therapeutic approaches, and ICU outcomes of earthquake victims who were hospitalized in Turkish ICUs.

Methods

This was a retrospective multicenter study of adult patients admitted to 12 ICUs across eight tertiary hospitals located in five different cities within 2 weeks after consecutive earthquakes. Clinical and laboratory data were documented at four specific time intervals: upon hospital admission and during the first, second, and third days of ICU admission. To identify independent predictors of ICU mortality, a binary logistic regression model was used for variables identified from the univariate analysis.

Results

A total of 201 patients were admitted to ICUs. The median age of the entire cohort was 36 [26–54] years. 87 patients were male (43.3%), and 114 were female (56.7%). The majority of patients (79.1%) were initially admitted to the emergency department. The median duration of being trapped under the rubble was 12 [5–31] hours. The primary reason (63.7%) for ICU admission was crush syndrome. Acute kidney injury (AKI) was identified in 61.5% of patients. Of 201 patients, 184 had information regarding ICU survival. The ICU mortality rate was 10%. A five-year increase in age, the presence of crush syndrome, and the requirement for vasopressor therapy during ICU care were independently associated with increased ICU mortality rates, while an increase of one point in the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score was favorable for ICU mortality.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that crush syndrome accounted for 63.7% of the reasons for ICU admissions. The ICU mortality rate was recorded as 10%. Noteworthy independent risk factors for mortality were the presence of crush syndrome, increased age, vasopressor treatment and lower GCS score.
Analysis of central corneal thickness in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Saldaña-Garrido Juan David , Cantó-Cerdán Mario , Gil-Guillén Vicente Francisco , Alfaro-Beltrá María Luisa , Sivera Francisca
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with ocular involvement in up to 30% of cases. Due to its type I collagen composition, the cornea is particularly susceptible to thinning due to immune-complex deposition. A reduced central corneal thickness (CCT) is clinically relevant in glaucoma, where a thinner CCT increases glaucoma risk and in refractive surgery planning. Previous studies on CCT in SLE are limited due to methodological heterogeneity, technology use, inclusion criteria, and sample size, resulting in conflicting findings. This study aims to evaluate and compare the mean CCT values between patients with SLE and healthy controls.

Materials and methods

This cross-sectional study assessed mean CCT in 71 participants, 36 patients with SLE and 35 age- and sex-matched healthy controls, recruited from ophthalmology consultations. Participants with other risk factors for corneal thinning were excluded. A pilot study estimated a sample size of 34 participants per group. After confirming concordance using the Kappa index, one randomly selected eye per participant was included. CCT was measured using Zeiss HD Cirrus 5,000 optical coherence tomography. Correlation analysis was conducted using Spearman’s Rho coefficient, while a Loess regression was performed to visualize both linear and non-linear trends. Multivariate linear regression assessed the relationship between CCT, SLE, and other variables.

Results

Patients in the SLE group exhibited significantly thicker CCT than controls (536.44 ± 39.91 μm vs. 517.57 ± 29.62 μm, p = 0.014). Intraocular pressure (IOP) was similar between groups (14.31 ± 3.12 mmHg vs. 14.54 ± 2.36 mmHg, p = 0.898). CCT positively correlated with the length of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) use (R: 0.357; p = 0.041), showing a trend toward an increase with prolonged usage, peaking approximately 100 months. Multivariate regression confirmed the association between SLE and higher CCT, potentially due to HCQ use.

Discussion

We established an association between CCT and the presence of SLE, with SLE patients exhibiting significantly higher CCT values, potentially due to hydroxychloroquine use. These findings have important implications for IOP assessment, glaucoma risk evaluation, and refractive surgery planning in SLE patients and those undergoing treatment with HCQ. Further prospective studies are warranted to validate these observations and explore the underlying mechanisms.
Blood compatibility evaluation of polydopamine nanoparticles
Authors: Li Sha , Yan Si-Ming , Zhang Li-Wei , Yang Xiao-Yan , Guo Zhong
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Polydopamine nanoparticles (PDA NPs) exhibit numerous outstanding characteristics, including simple preparation, broad light absorption, drug binding ability, excellent biocompatibility and adhesive properties, making them suitable for biomedical application. However, the limited information on their hemocompatibility may hinder their progression from laboratory research to clinical application.

Methods

In this study, we investigated comprehensively the hemocompatibility of PDA NPs, assessed the effects of PDA NPs on red blood cells (RBCs) morphology and lysis, fibrinogen structure and conformation, blood coagulation, platelet activation, complement system activation, and organ toxicity.

Results

The results indicated that PDA NPs can induce morphological changes and hemolysis in RBCs in a concentration-dependent manner. Interactions with fibrinogen suggested a disturbance in the protein’s microenvironment without significantly altering its secondary structure. This study also revealed that PDA NPs have a concentration-dependent effect on blood coagulation, platelet activation, and complement system activation. Additionally, PDA NPs showed no significant acute toxicity after intravenous injection.

Conclusion

The findings offer important insights into the hemocompatibility of PDA NPs, which is essential for their safe and effective clinical use. Understanding their interactions with blood components is key to ensuring their compatibility in biomedical applications. These results are vital for guiding the development of PDA NPs for medical use, particularly in blood-contacting applications.
Exploring the role of nutritional strategies to influence physiological and cognitive mechanisms in cold weather operations in military personnel
Authors: Smid Dagmar J. , Klous Lisa , Ballak Sam B. , Catoire Milène , De Hoogh Iris M. , Hoevenaars Femke P. M.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

As a basis for performance optimal nutritional balance is key to keep the body functioning at homeostatic capacity. When environmental circumstances become challenging such as in a cold environment extraordinary performance is requested specifically for physiological (i.e., vascular response, diet induced thermogenesis, immune response), and cognitive mechanisms (i.e., cognitive function, psychological and cognitive wellbeing) of the human body. In this review we describe which nutritional strategies could enhance military performance in the cold by mitigation of CWIs.

Methods

We will first describe how exposure to cold affects the physiological or cognitive mechanisms itself and then we will explain how nutrition can be used to optimize these affected mechanisms. We will discuss long-term nutritional solutions preventing shortfalls and potential direct quick fixes for physiological and cognitive mechanisms.

Results

For optimal functioning of the immune system and infection prevention, absence of micronutrient deficiencies is key and should be pursued amongst military personnel. For the effectivity of PUFA’s, Echinacea purpurea and probiotics in immune functioning, more research is needed in the CWO context. A multitude of micronutrients (i.e., nitrate, L-citrulline, L-arginine) appears to be able to enhance vasodilation, perhaps partially offsetting the detrimental effect of cold on peripheral blood circulation. Although the direct effect of diet induced thermogenesis is small in comparison to being physically active, it is of interest to investigate the effects of adding a combination of spices to the rations, such as capsaicin from red pepper, cinnamon, ginger, and menthol. Also, of interest for stimulation of thermogenesis are caffeine, and polyphenolic compounds. Caffeine and tyrosine supplementation 1 h, resp. 2 h before a cognitively demanding task during CWOs could be used to mitigate decreases in cognitive performance. Alternatives that are of interest, but need more research, include chocolate polyphenols and omega-3 fatty acids.

Conclusion

Even though some recommendations can be provided, it is evident that much information regarding the effectiveness and application of micronutrients in cold weather operations is still lacking. More focus should be placed on investigating (micro)nutritional solutions, practical feasibility, and implementation in operational military personnel to better understand the magnitude of the possible benefits in cold conditions.
“I feel like people would look at me like I’m dirty or like I’m a thief:” a qualitative exploration of interpersonal and intrapersonal experiences that influence recovery among adults at risk of opioid-related overdose
Authors: Szlyk Hannah S. , Jones Sara , Michener Jordan , Zhang Zhuoran , Kaiser Nina , Holtz Heidi , Frempong Melody Rachel Konadu , Lateef Husain , Hutson William , Cavazos-Rehg Patricia
Published: February 2025

Objective

Due to the nature of early termination of treatment and the transient lifestyles of many people who use substances, many providers are unaware of the factors that may have contributed to their client’s engagement in treatment. Treatment providers and researchers need a better understanding of intrapersonal and interpersonal factors that impact recovery from the clients’ perspective. This study uses qualitative methods to explore these factors.

Methods

Eligible participants were adults who had used opioids and/or stimulants and were receiving treatment at a consenting facility. Participants completed one-month follow-up interviews after using a mobile health intervention. Transcripts were analyzed using deductive thematic analyses. Two research staff members coded the transcripts independently. The third coder identified coding discrepancies.

Results

Out of 24 participants, most were middle-aged, and the majority identified as female and as white. Half of participants (n = 12) shared that they have recovery-related worries, predominantly about finances and finding work after treatment. Twenty participants (n = 20) discussed how they currently take care of their daily needs. All participants shared proactive factors that support recovery, specifically seeking motivation from loved ones. Conversely, many participants shared how they had strained familial relationships when using substances. Twenty participants reported experiencing the theme of stigma due to their substance use, specifically by family members and providers.

Conclusion

Most participants are concerned about their financial future; the respective treatment facilities help to meet current basic needs. Most participants have relationships with family members and identify them as a source of support in recovery. Overall, many individuals in recovery have the tools to address interpersonal and intrapersonal challenges. Patients may still benefit from assistance planning for life post-treatment.
Case series: Chemical pneumonitis caused by exposure of sodium ibandronate powder
Authors: Pan Ting , Ma Guofeng , Qian Jiali
Published: February 2025

This report presents two cases of chemical pneumonitis caused by the exposure of sodium ibandronate powder, a bisphosphonate used for treating osteoporosis. They are both pharmaceutical workers, and they inhaled the powder after an accidental spill in the lab. They developed similar symptoms, but different imaging features, only one showed fibrotic changes. After the blood test and bronchoscopy examination, they both diagnosed as chemical pneumonitis. Their symptoms improved after treatment with glucocorticoids. Their lung lesions resolved completely after continued treatment. The findings suggest that the importance of appropriate safety measures in environments where pharmaceutical powders may be handled, such as in the pharmaceutical industry. Chemical pneumonitis from inhaled sodium ibandronate can have varying CT appearances and may benefit from glucocorticoids therapy.
How is patient trust transferred from online medical platforms to offline?
Authors: Liang Lin
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The function of the internet medical platform has expanded from online consultation to offline diagnosis and treatment appointment, forming a complete service process combining online and offline, improving the patient's medical experience and promoting the transfer of online trust to offline. However, the existing studies pay insufficient attention to the dynamic and multi-stage characteristics of online medical trust, especially the lack of in-depth discussion on the trust transfer of patients from online to offline.

Methods

This study builds a patient trust transfer model based on relevant theories, and analyzes the influence mechanism of online reputation feedback on patients' online and offline trust combined with text mining technologies such as sentiment analysis. The research adopts the multi-dimensional analysis method, comprehensively considers the online and offline scenarios, and reveals the key drivers of trust transfer through large-scale data analysis.

Results

The study found that doctors' online reputation feedback and interaction quality were important factors affecting patients' trust transfer. Positive online interaction and high-quality reputation feedback significantly enhanced patient trust and promoted the transfer of online trust to offline. The trust transfer process is dynamic and multi-stage, and the influencing factors of different stages are different. The study also revealed the significant difference in trust mechanism between online medicine and traditional medicine.

Discussion

This study revealed the formation and transfer mechanism of trust in online health care by building a trust transfer model, filling the gap in related research. The results provide practical guidance for the online medical platform to optimize the service process and enhance the trust of patients. In the future, we can further explore the trust transfer mechanism under different cultural backgrounds to promote the globalization of Internet medicine.
“Your behavior is not welcome here…”: forced internal displacement of sexual and gender minorities in Kenya
Authors: Igonya Emmy Kageha , Armah-Ansah Ebenezer Kwesi , Muga Winstoun , Stojanovski Kristefer
Published: February 2025

Background

While migration studies have boomed, little is mentioned about internal displacement of queer persons. In Kenya, internal displacement of sexual and gender minorities is often overlooked and not well understood, which results in increased marginalization and vulnerabilities. The article provides an in-depth analysis of forced serial internal displacement trajectories of sexual and gender minorities, and its effect on navigating socialites and livelihoods.

Methods

We draw on qualitative data conducted between 2010 and 2023 using participant observations, in-depth interviews, case histories, and focus group discussions with LGBTQ+ persons, as well as mothers and fathers of gay men in Kenya. We used a thematic approach and principles of interpretive anthropology to organize and describe the meaning of the data as a continuous process. Broader themes were identified from the beginning of the first study, resulting in the development of a codebook framework that was reiterated over time.

Findings

Our findings show that sexual and gender minorities are forced into internal migration. Factors informing are located at the individual, interpersonal, institutional, and communal levels. We identified three main themes with eight subthemes. The main themes were (1) reasons for migration, which were often related to stigma, violence and oppression, (2) patterns of migration, which primarily had rural to urban patterns and instability, and (3) kinship, networks, and social systems, which required rebuilding, and gaining “respectability” from kin.

Conclusion

There can be little doubt that sexual and gender minorities face stigma and discrimination across levels of the socioecological model, and that in most cases, there has been multiplied grievances and anti- LGBTQ+ activities instigating serial forced migration. Forced serial displacement of sexual and gender minorities in Kenya requires research attention, and it might be better served if examined through the lens of “forced migration,” given the non-voluntary aspects of fleeing and displacement. Rethinking LGBTQ+ IDPs through the lens of coercion may better capture the lived experiences given the structural stigma and violence in which they live and cannot escape.