bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Presence of Humic Acids in Landfill Leachate and Treatment by Flocculation at Low pH to Reduce High Pollution of This Liquid
Authors: Costa Carlos , Pinedo M. Laura , Riascos Brayan D.
Published: January 2025

Humic substances are abundant in landfill leachate, especially humic acids, which are insoluble at low pH in aqueous solutions. Focusing on the chemical properties of humic acids, we describe in this work a new method for a sustainable treatment of landfill leachate originated from solid wastes, which consists of the reduction of organic load (COD, chemical oxygen demand) and colour and is based in the gradual decrease in pH to the value in which HAs are insoluble in water solution. Zeta potential values mark the chemical stage of humic acids because of ionisation–protonation of the phenolic and carboxylic groups, and this parameter is monitored during flocculation, changing from −16.8 mV at pH 7.7 to 0.0068 mV at pH 2.0, when HAs precipitate. The final result is the reduction in the organic matter content (COD) and colour in the leachate, 86.1% and 84.7%, respectively. Solids produced by precipitation during the acidification treatment have been characterized by elemental chemical analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, concluding a high similarity in chemical composition with commercial and natural humic acids. Protonated humic acids at low pH can interact with other molecules by hydrogen bonds and form bigger molecular structures much more unstable in suspension, which conduct to precipitation. The mean diameter of the humic acids aggregates was measured, detecting the formation of big molecular structures at low pH. This process is analysed and compared economically with other processes proposed for landfill leachate treatment, resulting in a promising technique for the management of this residue.
Synthesis and Characterization of SnO₂/α-Fe₂O₃, In₂O₃/α-Fe₂O₃, and ZnO/α-Fe₂O₃ Thin Films: Photocatalytic and Antibacterial Applications
Authors: Arfaoui Asma , Mhamdi Ammar
Published: January 2025

The fabrication of metal oxide semiconductor heterostructures is a major way to enhance their properties in photocatalytic and antibacterial applications. In the present work, ZnO/α-Fe2O3, In2O3/α-Fe2O3, and SnO2/α-Fe2O3 are chosen to create the heterostructure of thin films using the spray pyrolysis method. This paper compares the experimental results of the structural and morphological properties of the prepared thin layers using XRD, Raman and SEM. The X-ray diffraction shows that the obtained thin film heterostructures crystallize in a hexagonal phase of ZnO, a cubic phase of In2O3 and a tetragonal structure of SnO2, with all of the preceding phases positioned on the rhombohedral phase of the hematite α-Fe2O3. In addition, the SEM study provided the morphology and surface structure and confirmed the presence of a highly folded, rough, uneven surface with imperfections of 20 and 65 nm for In2O3/α-Fe2O3 and SnO2/α-Fe2O3. The photoactivity of the prepared materials was tested via the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye. Consequently, our findings demonstrate that the cracked surface improves the rapid absorption of contaminants and allows water to easily pass through the surface of the thin layers. Finally, the antibacterial abilities of ZnO/α-Fe2O3, In2O3/α-Fe2O3, and SnO2/α-Fe2O3 thin films were investigated by using the agar well-diffusion technique, comparing the results to the Gram-negative of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Gram-positive of Bacillus subtilis, and these thin films were found to have high antibacterial activity.
The Influence of the Dominant Leg on Angle Trunk Rotation and Postural Symmetries in Adolescent Male Soccer Players: A Comparative Study
Authors: Theodorou Eleni , Chalari Eleanna , Hadjicharalambous Marios
Published: January 2025

Background: The current study examined whether there is an association between the dominant leg (DL) and the side of angle trunk rotation (ATR) and evaluated postural asymmetries and anthropometric characteristics between adolescent male soccer players and non-athletes across different age groups (11–14 years). Methods: This study included 502 male participants: 291 soccer players (age: 13 ± 2 years; height: 158 ± 17 cm; weight: 50.6 ± 12 kg) and 211 non-athletes (age: 13 ± 2 years; height: 158.3 ± 11 cm; weight: 50.5 ± 21 kg). The participants were categorized into four age groups: 11, 12, 13, and 14 years. Using a scoliometer, the primary (A) and secondary (B) ATR measurements were recorded and categorized into subgroups of 0–2, 3–5, and ≥6 degrees. A Chi-square test and a Mann–Whitney U-test were employed to analyze the raw data. Results: In soccer players, a significant association was found between the DL and primary ATR (p < 0.001). Conversely, non-athletes exhibited a significant association between the DL and secondary ATR only (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed in the anthropometric characteristics and ATR for the 11-year-old boys (p > 0.05). For the 12-year-old boys, there was a significant difference in the ATR-A region (p < 0.01). For the 13-year-olds, significant differences were found in height, ATR-A region, ATR-B side, ATR-B region, and ATR-B degrees (p < 0.05). The 14-year-old soccer players demonstrated significant differences in ATR metrics compared with non-athletes in the same age group (p < 0.01). Conclusions: The results indicate that older adolescent soccer players exhibited a higher ATR tendency compared to non-athletes. This suggests that daily soccer training and DL usage contribute to increase postural asymmetries and physical development variations in adolescence. These findings underscore the necessity for monitoring body posture health in athletes during the early period of adolescence in an attempt to mitigate the potential negative long-term impacts on their life.
Analysis of Symmetrical Three-Point Bending and Springback Process of Pipes
Authors: Song Xiaokang , Zhao Jun , Ma Rui , Li Jian
Published: January 2025

This study presents a theoretical analysis of the single-pressure straightening process for large-scale pipes, addressing the challenges of inadequate straightening precision and low efficiency associated with the current practice, which heavily relies on operator expertise. The straightening process of pipes through pressure is fundamentally a symmetrical three-point bending elastic–plastic deformation process. With the assumption of small deformations, the symmetric three-point bending of the pipe can be divided into two distinct deformation stages: fully elastic and elastic–plastic. For each stage, calculation models are developed, yielding the deflection formulae for any point on the pipe before and after unloading under varying punch strokes. The accuracy and reliability of the theoretical models are confirmed through finite element analysis and physical simulation experiments on smaller pipes. These models enhance the accuracy of single-pressure straightening and lay the groundwork for online material performance parameter identification based on load–stroke curves during the initial straightening phase. Both theoretical analysis and experimental outcomes demonstrate that the relationship between the maximum deflection after springback and the punch stroke are nearly linear, offering a practical method for developing intelligent control systems for pressure straightening.
Cross-Attention Fusion of Visual and Geometric Features for Large-Vocabulary Arabic Lipreading
Authors: Daou Samar , Ben-Hamadou Achraf , Rekik Ahmed , Kallel Abdelaziz
Published: January 2025

Lipreading involves recognizing spoken words by analyzing the movements of the lips and surrounding area using visual data. It is an emerging research topic with many potential applications, such as human–machine interaction and enhancing audio-based speech recognition. Recent deep learning approaches integrate visual features from the mouth region and lip contours. However, simple methods such as concatenation may not effectively optimize the feature vector. In this article, we propose extracting optimal visual features using 3D convolution blocks followed by a ResNet-18, while employing a graph neural network to extract geometric features from tracked lip landmarks. To fuse these complementary features, we introduce a cross-attention mechanism that combines visual and geometric information to obtain an optimal representation of lip movements for lipreading tasks. To validate our approach for Arabic, we introduce the first large-scale Lipreading in the Wild for Arabic (LRW-AR) dataset, consisting of 20,000 videos across 100 word classes, spoken by 36 speakers. Experimental results on both the LRW-AR and LRW datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach, achieving accuracies of 85.85% and 89.41%, respectively.
Impact of Combined Antiretroviral Treatment (cART) on Latent Cytomegalovirus Infection
Authors: Temereanca Aura , Ene Luminita , Tardei Gratiela , Grancea Camelia , Achim Cristian L. , Ruta Simona
Published: January 2025

Cytomegalovirus infections and reactivations are more frequent in people living with HIV (PLWH) and have been associated with increased risk of HIV progression and immunosenescence. We explored the impact of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) on latent CMV infection in 225 young adults parenterally infected with HIV during childhood. Anti-CMV IgG antibodies were present in 93.7% of participants, with lower levels correlating with longer cART exposure and better immunologic parameters. Patients with immunological treatment success (CD4 > 350 cells/mL) had significantly lower CMV IgG titers compared to those with suboptimal immune response to cART. In total, 78% of the tested patients had robust CMV-specific T-cell responses, measured by an IFN-γ release assay. A good immune response to treatment was significantly associated with CMV-specific cellular immunity: IFN-γ level was positively correlated with CD4 and CD8-T cell counts. No differences were observed between patients with suppressed/non-suppressed HIV viremia in terms of CMV humoral and cellular immune response. CMV DNA was detected in only 17% of participants, with lower levels among those with cART-induced immune recovery. The successful antiretroviral treatment with subsequent immunologic reconstitution may lead to restoration of CMV-specific immune responses and effective control of latent infection, limiting episodes of CMV reactivation in HIV-positive individuals.
Risk of Nipah Virus Seroprevalence in Healthcare Workers: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Riccò Matteo , Cascio Antonio , Costantino Claudio , Corrado Silvia , Zanella Ilaria , Giuri Pasquale Gianluca , Esposito Susanna
Published: January 2025

Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic pathogen with the potential to cause human outbreaks with a high case fatality ratio. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, available evidence on NiV infections occurring in healthcare workers (HCWs) was collected and critically appraised. According to the PRISMA statement, four medical databases (PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, and Scopus) and the preprint repository medRixv were inquired through a specifically designed searching strategy. A total of 2593 entries were identified; of them, 16 studies were included in qualitative and quantitative analysis detailing the outcome of NiV infection on HCWs and estimates of seroprevalence among healthcare professions. All studies reported data from Asian countries: Malaysia, Singapore, Bangladesh, India (States of Kerala and Bengal), and Philippines. Seroprevalence was estimated from seven studies in 0.00% (95%CI 0.00 to 0.10) for IgM-class antibodies and 0.08% (95%CI 0.00 to 0.72) for IgG class-antibodies, but four of the sampled studies did not report any seropositive cases. A case fatality ratio of 73.52% (95%CI 34.01 to 99.74) was calculated from 10 studies. In conclusion, the present study shows that NiV may result in a possible occupational infection among HCWs involved in managing incident cases. As most NiV outbreaks occur in limited resources settings, it is reasonable that even basic preventive measures (i.e., mandatory use of PPE and appropriate isolation of incident cases with physical distancing) may be quite effective in avoiding the occurrence of new infections among HCWs.
Monovalent Lectin Microvirin Utilizes Hydropathic Recognition of HIV-1 Env for Inhibition of Virus Cell Infection
Authors: Parajuli Bibek , Acharya Kriti , Bach Harry Charles , Zhang Shiyu , Abrams Cameron F. , Chaiken Irwin
Published: January 2025

Microvirin is a lectin molecule known to have monovalent interaction with glycoprotein gp120. A previously reported high-resolution structural analysis defines the mannobiose-binding cavity of Microvirin. Nonetheless, structure does not directly define the energetics of binding contributions of protein contact residues. To better understand the nature of the MVN-Env glycan interaction, we used mutagenesis to evaluate the residue contributions to the mannobiose binding site of MVN that are important for Env gp120 glycan binding. MVN binding site amino acid residues were individually replaced by alanine, and the resulting purified recombinant MVN variants were examined for gp120 interaction using competition Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), biosensor surface plasmon resonance, calorimetry, and virus neutralization assays. Our findings highlight the role of both uncharged polar and non-polar residues in forming a hydropathic recognition site for the monovalent glycan engagement of Microvirin, in marked contrast to the charged residues utilized in the two Cyanovirin-N (CVN) glycan-binding sites.
Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Hepatitis E Vaccination in Reproductive-Age Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jotautis Vaidas , Sarantaki Antigoni
Published: January 2025

Background: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection presents a significant health risk in endemic regions, especially for pregnant women, who face higher risks of severe complications, including maternal and fetal mortality. The recombinant HEV vaccine, HEV239, has demonstrated high efficacy in the general population, yet data on its safety and efficacy in women of a childbearing age remain limited. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of HEV239 in this specific population, with a focus on pregnancy-related outcomes. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were included if they reported outcomes on HEV239′s safety or efficacy in women of childbearing age, with data being extracted and analyzed for immunogenicity, HEV incidence, and maternal adverse events. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane and Newcastle Ottawa Scales, and a random-effects meta-analysis was performed. Results: Three studies, enrolling over 23,000 participants, were included in the current systematic review, with two meeting the criteria for meta-analysis. HEV239 demonstrated high efficacy in preventing hepatitis E infection, with no significant increase in adverse pregnancy outcomes such as stillbirth or elective termination. However, there was an elevated risk of miscarriage (odds ratio [OR], 1.60; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.99–2.57). The analysis revealed high heterogeneity for miscarriage outcomes (I2 = 67%), reflecting variability in study designs and populations. Conclusions: HEV239 is effective in preventing HEV infection among women of childbearing age, although caution is advised when administering the vaccine near conception due to potential miscarriage risks. Future studies should focus on understanding the biological mechanisms and timing-specific safety to guide vaccination recommendations.
Characterization of the Population of Ovarian Preantral Follicles in Juvenile Six-Banded Armadillos Infected or Not by Mycobacterium leprae
Authors: Lima Gabriela L. , Brasil Andreza V. , Silva Andreia M. , Antunes João Marcelo A. de P. , Comizzoli Pierre , Silva Alexandre R.
Published: January 2025

The objective of this study was to characterize and estimate the population of ovarian preantral follicles in juvenile six-banded armadillos. Pairs of ovaries from five armadillos were collected during a routine epidemiological survey of leprosis (three healthy and two infected females). Ovaries weighed approximately 0.06 kg, representing a gonadosomatic index of 6.9 ± 0.8%. The mean ovarian follicular population was 15,567.2 preantral follicles per ovarian pair. For most females, follicular population was mainly composed of primordial follicles. No major histological ovarian parameter was affected by M. leprae infection. All females presented high rates of follicular degeneration, regardless of M. leprae infection. In conclusion, we present original particularities regarding the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the ovarian population of juvenile six-banded armadillos.
Characterization of Benitaka Grape Pomace (Vitis vinifera L.): An Analysis of Its Properties for Future Biorefinery Applications
Authors: Castro Luiz Eduardo Nochi , Barroso Tiago Linhares Cruz Tabosa , Ferreira Vanessa Cosme , Forster Carneiro Tânia
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the properties of Benitaka grape pomace (Vitis vinifera L.), a byproduct of the wine industry, focusing on its potential for applications in the circular economy and biorefinery processes. The analysis covers a range of physical, chemical, and structural characteristics, including the composition of proteins, moisture, lipids, ash, sugars, fiber fractions (such as neutral-detergent fiber, cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose), pH, acidity, gross energy, as well as bioactive compounds such as total phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and antioxidant capacity. Advanced characterization techniques, such as nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, and high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, were employed. The results revealed an acidic pH of 4.05 and a titratable acidity of 1.25 g of tartaric acid per 100 g. The gross energy was 3764 kcal kg−1, indicating high energy capacity, similar to wood chips. The pomace exhibited high hygroscopicity (31 to 50 g of moisture per 100 g), high levels of fiber, cellulose, and lignin, as well as bioactive compounds with significant values of total phenolics (5956.56 mg GAE 100 g−1), flavonoids (1958.33 mg CAT 100 g−1), and anthocyanins (66.92 mg C3G 100 g−1). Antioxidant analysis showed promising results, with DPPH and FRAP values of 20.12 and 16.85 μmol TEAC g−1 of extract, respectively. This study not only validates existing data but also provides new insights into the composition of hemicellulose and lignocellulosic phase transitions, highlighting grape pomace as a promising resource for sustainability in industry and biorefinery processes.
Terapia racional emotivo-conductual en sintomatología de ansiedad no clínica: diferenciación por sexo
Authors: Montes Rodríguez Darly Yomira , Sornoza Zavala Giorgy Augusto
Published: January 2025

En esta investigación se describen la posible diferenciación en los resultados de la terapia racional emotivo-conductual en ambos sexos considerando las diferencias biológicas y socioculturales entre ellos y cómo esto influye en cómo responden a un enfoque terapéutico específico. Partiendo desde las diferencias biológicas y hormonales que diversos estudios describen como las causantes de las diferencias en la respuesta al estrés y la ansiedad entre ambos sexos debido a las disparidades hormonales, como los niveles de estrógeno y progesterona en las mujeres; que afectan la regulación emocional. Así mismo las diferencias cognitivas y emocionales ya que la terapia racional emotivo-conductual se basa en gran medida en el enfoque cognitivo y la reestructuración de pensamientos irracionales. En la historia se ha sugerido que hombres y mujeres pueden tener estilos de pensamiento y procesamiento emocional distintos, por lo tanto, es razonable suponer que pueden responder de manera diferente a las técnicas utilizadas en esta terapia. Y por último las experiencias y expectativas socioculturales: roles de género y expectativas sociales que afectan la expresión y la percepción de la ansiedad. Las presiones culturales para que los hombres sean fuertes y repriman sus emociones y por otro lado, las mujeres pueden sentirse más cómodas expresando emociones y buscando ayuda, lo que podría afectar en cómo se benefician de la terapia. Para esta revisión narrativa, se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica en las principales bases biomédicas como PubMed, PsycInfo, Scopus y ScienceDirect, a fin de examinar la evidencia actual más relevante de los últimos 5 años.
El estado depresivo en los estudiantes universitarios
Authors: Macias Mera Carlos Luis , Egas Reyes María Verónica
Published: January 2025

El estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar la expresión del estado depresivo en los estudiantes universitarios que acuden al Departamento de Bienestar Estudiantil en el área de Psicología, de la Universidad Técnica de Manabí (UTM) en la etapa post-pandemia. Se desarrolló mediante una metodología cuantitativa, de alcance exploratorio y descriptivo, de tipo transversal, tomando de instrumento al Inventario de Depresión Rasgo-Estado (IDERE). El muestreo utilizado fue no probabilístico de tipo bola de nieve y estuvo conformado por 33 personas. Como resultado se obtuvo que los participantes de la investigación, poseen en su mayoría un porcentaje alto de estado depresivo, en mujeres del 54.54% como depresivo alto y 3.03% en estado depresivo medio, en hombres un 39.39% en estado depresivo alto y 3.03% en estado depresivo medio; además, existieron ciertas expresiones dentro de la escala de estado que fueron más destacadas dentro los parámetros o ítems evaluativos.  En conclusión se encontró que la población estudiada expresa un porcentaje alto de estado depresivo, además de la existencia de un índice diferencial en el género de estudiantes más afectados, y que al tomar de referencia las expresiones positivas al estado depresivo de la escala estado del IDERE, se destaca que los participantes demuestran tener un posible apoyo emocional, desmotivación de su realidad, y preocupaciones, situación que se ve expresada en síntomas depresivos.
Estrés percibido en docentes de aulas hospitalarias
Authors: León  Abad Andrea Elizabet , Terán Espinoza Juan Daniel
Published: January 2025

Los docentes de aulas hospitalarias se desempeñan en condiciones marcadas por una carga afectiva y demanda en ocasiones intensas, por lo que perciben un nivel de estrés, que de no ser gestionado de manera apropiada podrían verse afectados en su salud física y mental. El objetivo que se plantea este estudio es el conocer los principales aspectos en los que se manifiesta el estrés percibido por los docentes en su cotidianidad. Para llevar a cabo este proceso se consideró un diseño no experimental, con un enfoque cuantitativo, de alcance descriptivo, de corte transversal, los métodos que considera este estudio son bibliográfico, analítico-sintético y estadística descriptiva; para la evaluación se utilizó la Escala de Estrés Percibido que fue aplicada a 12 profesionales que pertenecen a la Dirección Distrital de Educación 17D05, en conclusión de acuerdo con los resultados, el 58,3% de la población se enmarca en una percepción de estrés, considerada como moderada; lo que, podría ser consecuencia de la labor y entorno en el que desenvuelven;  en este sentido, se hace evidente la necesidad de gestionar un espacio que permita la descarga emocional y se brinde estrategias de afrontamiento minimizando el riesgo y mejorando la calidad de vida.
A Proposed Educational Framework for Jordanian Universities to Develop a Culture of Quality Assurance
Authors: AlZboon Mohammad , Abu Salah Faten
Published: January 2025

This study aims to develop a proposed educational perspective for Jordanian universities to foster a culture of quality. The study adopted a descriptive approach, proposing an educational framework to enhance the role of Jordanian universities in promoting a culture of quality. This framework focuses on activating the roles of university staff, involving them in the development of strategic plans and objectives, aligning work strategies with quality systems, using performance standards and indicators to evaluate and improve performance, and utilizing continuous feedback to ensure the achievement of a quality culture. The ultimate goal is to achieve high-quality educational outcomes, which represent the core of the educational services provided to students. The study also outlined the framework's definition, philosophy, objectives, fundamental principles, areas of focus, components, and mechanisms for its successful implementation. In light of the results, the study recommended adopting the proposed educational perspective for Jordanian universities to address the challenges and difficulties they face in developing a quality culture. It also recommended conducting training courses to raise awareness among Jordanian university employees about developing a quality culture to achieve high levels of quality in the educational services provided and a competitive advantage for Jordanian universities.
The Incidence and Outcomes of Acute Kidney Disease in Critically Ill Children
Authors: Mauroner Lillian , Kellum John A. , Levey Andrew S. , Formeck Cassandra , Fuhrman Dana Y.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Acute kidney disease (AKD) includes abnormalities of kidney function present for <90 days. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is defined as a subset of AKD, with onset within seven days. There is scant data on the rates of AKD in children and its association with outcomes. Our primary objective was to examine the rates of AKD with and without AKI and compare major adverse events (MAKE) in children in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU).

Methods:

This is a retrospective cohort study of patients ≤18 years old who were admitted to a quaternary care PICU between 2009 and 2016 using the high-density pediatric database. All patients included in the primary analysis had a known baseline serum creatinine. Patients who had a baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 or a history of dialysis dependence or kidney transplant were excluded. AKI and AKD were defined by Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes definitions. MAKE-90 was defined as a composite outcome of death, dialysis, or persistent kidney dysfunction 90 days after PICU admission.

Results:

Among 5,922 children included in this study, 1,199 (20.2%) had AKD, of which 1,092 (91%) had AKD with AKI and 107 (8.9%) had AKD without AKI. MAKE-90 occurred in 26% (308/1,199) of those with AKD compared to 3.6% (172/4723) without (p=<0.001). MAKE-90 occurred in 26% (279/1,092) of AKD with AKI and 27% (29/107) of AKD without AKI. After adjusting for age, sex, and illness severity, compared to patients that had no AKD, patients with AKD with AKI (aOR: 14.39, 95% CI: 11.06-18.72) and patients with AKD without AKI (aOR: 7.83, 95% CI: 4.54-13.51) had a greater odds of MAKE-90.

Conclusions:

More than a quarter of pediatric critically ill patients with AKD develop MAKE-90. Even in the absence of AKI, AKD is an independent risk factor for MAKE-90.
Transtorno de ansiedade generalizada: terapêuticas alternativas e uma revisão da literatura
Authors: Chaves Ilária Ferreira , Silva João Leno Domingos Paz da , Domingos Aline Regina Macedo , Silva Graziela Giongo da , Bonfim Amanda Lopes , Benicio Cauê Oliveira , Silva Vanessa Giongo da , Norte Jean de Souza do
Published: January 2025

A ansiedade é uma emoção humana natural, porém, pode intensificar-se excessivamente, assumindo um caráter patológico que resulta em transtorno psiquiátrico, afetando adversamente a qualidade de vida. O Transtorno de Ansiedade Generalizada (TAG) frequentemente não recebe o diagnóstico adequado e, consequentemente, o tratamento necessário. Indivíduos que experimentam sintomas que sugerem esse transtorno devem buscar avaliação por um psiquiatra para orientação adequada. Para seu tratamento, são comumente prescritos medicamentos benzodiazepínicos, os quais apresentam elevada incidência de efeitos colaterais e potencial de dependência química. Posto isto, a busca por tratamentos alternativos, como fitoterápicos, aromaterapia, musicoterapia, combinados a mudanças comportamentais e ao tratamento psicológico, tem sido opções eficazes. No entanto, cada paciente enfrenta circunstâncias individuais, o que requer uma avaliação cuidadosa para determinar o método de tratamento mais eficaz e eficiente para o TAG.
Hérnia de Garengeot: um relato de caso
Authors: Macedo Maressa Quezzia Londe , Torres Adriano Pamplona , Ferreira Vítor Falqueto , Vieira Ana Clara Costa , Coura Vitor  Lyra Assis do Carmo , Gonçalves Mariana Fiuza
Published: January 2025

Introdução: A hérnia de Garengeot é um achado raro, caracterizado como a presença de um apêndice em uma hérnia femoral. Relato de caso: Paciente do sexo feminino, de 64 anos, com dor em região inguinal e abaulamento, sem alterações de hábitos intestinais, foi admitida com evidencias laboratoriais de leucocitose e tomografia demonstrando hérnia inguinal direita com apêndice cecal em seu interior e sinais inflamatórios. Foi realizada a inguinotomia, com redução da hérnia e fixação com telas. Discussão: a hérnia de Garengeot é frequentemente um achado incidental durante uma cirurgia de hérnia femoral, sendo a hérnia de Amyand um de seus diagnósticos diferenciais. Conclusão: ainda não há um consenso sobre qual é o procedimento mais adequado para esses casos.
Revisão de literatura sobre a menopausa em mulheres com diagnóstico de endometriose pélvica
Authors: Lacerda Anna Gabriela Santana de
Published: January 2025

A endometriose pélvica é caracterizada pela presença de focos ativos ou tecido endometrial (células glandulares e estroma) fora de sua cavidade, que acomete 10% da população feminina. Segundo, Barbieri, concentrações séricas de estradiol menores que 20pg/ml promovem atrofia das lesões endometrióticas, assim como, valores superiores a 100pg/ml ocorrem ativação das lesões. O diagnóstico padrão-ouro é o anatomo-patológico, porém, atualmente, se aceitam os métodos por imagem como a ressonância magnética ou da ultrassonografia pélvica transvaginal com preparo intestinal para o diagnóstico. O tratamento deve ser preferencialmente cirúrgico, porém, voltado para o desejo reprodutivo da paciente, onde a taxa de recidiva após 12 meses pode ocorrer em 50% dos casos. Para diminuir a recidiva, devemos realizar o tratamento complementar com hormônios combinados ou somente contendo progestagênios após a intervenção cirúrgica. Na transição menopausal, o declínio da quantidade e qualidade dos folículos é caracterizada por irregularidade do ciclo menstrual com diminuição dos níveis de estradiol. Muitos tratamentos hormonais levam a amenorreia e dificultam o diagnóstico da menopausa, mesmo na presença de sintomas vasomotores. As cirúrgias ovarianas conservadoras também podem culminar com perdas da reserva folicular. A menopausa fisiológica ocorre por volta dos 50 anos de idade entre mulheres de países desenvolvidos, sendo que, e ainda não existe uma determinação muito bem esclarecida sobre a influência da endometriose pélvica sobre  a mudança dessa cronologia.
Safe medication administration: strategies used by the nursing team
Authors: Hillesheim Renan Willemann , Brazil Diogo Laurindo , Farias Rosimeri Geremias , Rosa Thayse
Published: January 2025

Objective: Analyze the effectiveness of the strategies used by the nursing team to ensure patient safety in the use and administration of medications. Methods: This is a descriptive research in the qualitative modality. It was developed in the clinical treatment sector of a general hospital in the interior of Santa Catarina. As a data collection instrument, a script composed of 17 open questions was used, which was prepared by the researchers and validated through its application in professionals from sectors that were not the research stage. The research subjects were 33 professionals from the nursing team working in the medical and surgical clinics of the aforementioned hospital. Results: Two categories of analysis were identified: Strategies used by nursing professionals aiming at the safe administration of medication and Relationship between the identified strategies and the nine certainties for the safe administration of medication. It is considered that the strategies identified by the study do not fully comply with what is recommended by the current literature and legislation, but that, even so, the practice of these strategies positively influences in terms of reducing the occurrence of errors in the administration of medications in the scenario of researched subjects.
Fatores de risco associados ao desenvolvimento de sepse em pacientes internados em uma unidade de terapia intensiva da região metropolitana de Belo Horizonte
Authors: Coutinho Gabriely Martins , Machado Larissa Lanza Santos , Rocha Nayane Rabelo , Silva Gustavo Armany
Published: January 2025

A sepse é uma emergência médica complexa, associada à elevada morbimortalidade. Considerando a gravidade que ela representa, torna-se cada vez mais crucial o reconhecimento precoce de fatores que estão relacionados a um perfil clínico da condição. Objetiva-se, com este estudo, contribuir para uma melhor caracterização da doença, a partir do reconhecimento de um perfil associado ao diagnóstico e a uma maior taxa de mortalidade. Para tanto, procede-se à análise de prontuários de 122 pacientes internados, com diagnóstico de sepse, na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva de um hospital público da região metropolitana de Belo Horizonte, no período de um ano. Desse modo, observa-se que a maioria era do sexo masculino (59%), com média de idade de 68 anos, e apresentava comorbidades prevalentes, como hipertensão arterial sistêmica e diabetes mellitus. Observou-se, também, a associação de tabagismo e etilismo com piores desfechos. Os principais focos infecciosos identificados foram: pulmonar (50%), urinário (19,7%) e abdominal (11,5%). Pacientes com choque séptico representaram 68%, dos quais 58 (47%) evoluíram para óbito. A mortalidade global foi de 61,48%. O tempo médio de internação foi maior entre os óbitos (11,5 dias) em comparação com os sobreviventes (8,3 dias). Conclui-se que a sepse, ainda que permaneça um desafio clínico significativo, apresenta padrões que estão relacionados tanto ao diagnóstico quanto ao prognóstico da doença, em concordância com a literatura existente. O reconhecimento precoce desse perfil de pacientes e intervenções direcionadas a fatores de risco modificáveis podem reduzir a mortalidade e otimizar o tratamento dessa condição crítica.
Gingival Soft Tissue Integrative Zirconia Abutments with High Fracture Toughness and Low-Temperature Degradation Resistance
Authors: Li Qiulan , Yao Mianfeng , Yang Yunxu , Lin Bixiao , Chen Hongio , Luo Huixia , Zhang Chao , Huang Yanhao , Jian Yutao , Zhao Ke , Wang Xiaodong
Published: January 2025

Low fracture toughness, low-temperature degradation (LTD) susceptibility, and inadequate soft tissue integration greatly limit the application of zirconia ceramic abutment. Integrating the “surface” of hard all-ceramic materials into the gingival soft tissue and simultaneously promoting the “inner” LTD resistance and fracture toughness is challenging. Composite ceramics are effective in improving the comprehensive properties of materials. In this study, we aim to develop a zirconia composite abutment with high “inner” structure stability and “surface” bioactivities simultaneously and to explore the mechanism of performance improvement. Therefore, elongated SrAl
12
O
19
and equiaxed Al
2
O
3
were introduced into the zirconia matrix by using the Pechini method. Reinforcements of different shapes can promote the density, reduce the grain size, and increase the phase stability of composite ceramics, which improves the fracture toughness and LTD susceptibility. In addition, the released strontium ions (Sr
2+
), without sacrificing the mechanical properties of the material, could activate the biological capacity of the zirconia surface by activating the M2 polarization of macrophages through the Sr
2+
/calcium-sensing receptor/SH3 domain-binding protein 5 axis, thereby promoting the collagen matrix synthesis of fibroblasts and the angiogenesis of vascular endothelial cells. This successful case proposes a novel strategy for the development of advanced high-strength and bioactive all-ceramic materials by introducing reinforcements containing biofunctional elements into the ceramic matrix. The approach paves the way for the widespread application of such all-ceramic materials in soft-tissue-related areas.
Enhanced Digital Light Processing-Based One-Step 3-Dimensional Printing of Multifunctional Magnetic Soft Robot
Authors: Li Zhaoxin , Weng Ding , Chen Lei , Ma Yuan , Wang Zili , Wang Jiadao
Published: January 2025

Soft structures driven by magnetic fields exhibit the characteristics of being unencumbered and rapidly responsive, enabling the fabrication of various soft robots according to specific requirements. However, soft structures made from a single magnetic material cannot meet the multifunctional demands of practical scenarios, necessitating the development of soft robot fabrication technologies with composite structures of diverse materials. A novel enhanced digital light processing (DLP) 3-dimensional (3D) printing technology has been developed, capable of printing composite magnetic structures with different materials in a single step. Furthermore, a soft robot with a hard magnetic material–superparamagnetic material composite was designed and printed, demonstrating its thermal effect under high-frequency magnetic fields and the editability of the magnetic domains of the hard magnetic material. The robot exhibits a range of locomotive behaviors, including crawling, rolling, and swimming. Under the influence of a 1-Hz actuation magnetic field, the normalized velocities for these modes of motion are recorded as 0.31 body length per second for crawling, 1.88 body length per second for rolling, and 0.14 body length per second for swimming. The robot has demonstrated its capacity to navigate uneven terrain, surmount barriers, and engage in directed locomotion, along with the ability to capture and transport objects. Additionally, it has showcased swimming capabilities within environments characterized by low Reynolds numbers and high fluid viscosities, findings that corroborate simulation analyses. The multimaterial 3D printing technology introduced in this research presents extensive potential for the design and manufacturing of multifunctional soft robots.
Effect of atorvastatin on pro-inflammatory cytokines during cisplatin administration; a double-blind clinical trial study
Authors: Shamsdin Seyedeh Azra , Namdari Nasrin , Rajaei Ali
Published: January 2025

Introduction: The primary concern in maintaining treatment with cisplatin pertains to the occurrence of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. After the administration of cisplatin, the prospective evaluation of the effects of Atorvastatin on kidney function and inflammatory mediators was conducted. Objectives: This double-blind clinical trial study was conducted in order to assess the changes in serum levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)and interleukin-17A (IL-17A) after cisplatin administration and to ascertain the protective effects of atorvastatin against cisplatin nephrotoxicity due to the effect on the levels of cytokines. Patients and Methods: In this double-blind clinical trial study, 30 potential candidates for the administration of cisplatin were enrolled. Patients were subsequently categorized into two distinct groups. Group A received 40 mg/d of atorvastatin on the first day of cisplatin and continued for seven days. Group B was provided with a placebo. Following the administration of cisplatin, blood samples were collected for BUN, serum creatinine, magnesium, potassium, TNF-α, and IL-17A on days 0, 8 and 21. Results: Although there was no statistically significant difference in terms of serum urea, creatinine and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) between the two groups; however, within intra-group analysis, atorvastatin caused slower reduction of GFR compared to baseline. Though, no correlation was observed between the level of inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α and IL-17A and atorvastatin administration. Conclusion: Atorvastatin may have the ability to prevent cisplatin nephrotoxicity; however, it does not have any effect on inflammatory cytokines. Trial Registration: The trial protocol was approved by the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trial (identifier: IRCT20140605017982N2; https://en.irct.ir/trial/47349, ethical code: IR.SUMS.MED. REC.1398.024).
Benefits of indigenous mycorrhizae for enhancing cork oak growth in potential ecological restoration (Western Algeria)
Authors: Adda Meriem , Dib Soulef , Alim Yousra
Published: January 2025

During this work, we collected indigenous mycorrhizae from cork oak Quercus suber L. trees in the Oran cork forests. Indigenous mycorrhizae are natural mycorhizal roots that include indigenous fungi. They are called indigenous because they originate from and are adapted to the local environment.
Indigenous mycorrhizae were at first examined morphologically in the Laboratory and then were inoculated to cork oak seedlings obtained from pregerminated seeds. The seedlings were raised in open pots, on potting soil, in greenhouse conditions.
After 4 months of cultivation, the growth of the cork oak seedlings was estimated by measuring the height of their aerial part as well as by the number of leaves and branches.
Preliminary results revealed that the Indigenous mycorrhizae were essentially ectomycorrhizae, with a fungal mantle and a Hartig network, forming 14 morphotypes which differ in color, morphology, and size. Endomycorrhizae were also seen with intracellular hyphae forming vesicles, arbuscules, and coils.
Analysis of the growth parameters of cork oak seedlings, cultivated in greenhouse, showed that their inoculation with Indigenous mycorrhizae improved plant growth. The roots of these seedlings, in addition to improved growth, showed a cellular fungal installation. Consequently, indigenous mycorrhizal fungi of the inoculated roots are potential growth promoting tools for Quercus suber seedlings in ecological restauration.
Awareness of Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana in Tamilnadu: A Study with Special Reference to Tirunelveli
Authors: Abdul Rahuman M
Published: January 2025

Girl child secure is very important one, therefore the people must know and to start the Selvamagal scheme. The central government has started this special savings scheme. The name of this scheme is Sukanya Samriti Yojana (SSY). This scheme is provided by the government for the future of girl children. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had launched this scheme in 2015. This small savings scheme offers higher interest than other schemes. A study was conducted specifically in this area to understand the dynamics of this region, which is unique in its blend of traditional occupations and high educational attainment. The sample size of this study is 120 respondents. Based on Judgmental sampling regions where poor people reside have been identified and the data has been collected by using a systematic sampling method.
Exploring the Journey of Self Identity and Women Empowerment in Patriarchal Society in Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables
Authors: Jeevitha M , Paul Thomas Raj V
Published: January 2025

Lucy Maud Montgomery was born on November 30, 1874, in New London. She was a Canadian novelist, short story writer, and poet. One of her best novels, Anne of Green Gables, was a huge success. In this novel, Anne Shirley, an 11-year-old girl, is mistakenly sent to live with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, siblings who have planned to adopt a boy to help them with their farm, made up of the Canadian community of Avonlea. As she negotiates the difficulties of growing up in a patriarchal environment, the novel explores Anne’s journey of discovery as she navigates the challenges of growing up in a patriarchal society. This novel examines the interplay of communication theories within L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables, focusing on how Anne Shirley’s journey reflects concepts such as interpersonal communication, identity negotiation, and self-presentation. The narrative highlights how Anne’s rhetorical skills and ability to adapt her language foster connections and overcome societal barriers. By bridging the thematic elements of belonging, empowerment, and identity with communication theories, this study explores the broader implications of language in shaping relationships and self-perception in the Avonlea Community.
Zur Bedeutung von Emotionen für die Konstruktion von Behinderung
Authors: Kremsner Gertraud , Proyer Michelle
Published: January 2025

Die Autorinnen widmen sich der Relevanz von Emotionen im Kontext der Konstruktion von Behinderung. Mit Bezugnahme auf die Disability Studies werden hier insbesondere unterdrückte Emotionen, wie Angst, Mitleid und Ekel in ihrer Bedeutung für die (Re-)Produktion ableistischer Praxen und Formen der Abwertung von Behinderung beleuchtet. Das „Psycho Emotional Model of Disability“ wird von den beiden Autorinnen als Grundlage für einen maßgeblich durch Emotionen geprägten Konflikt von Fähigkeiten und Erwartungen in der Begegnung von Menschen mit und ohne zugeschriebene Behinderung angeführt, welcher sich in Prozessen eines „Othering“ äußert. Durch eine Reflexion und Neubewertung von Vulnerabilitäten sowie die Entwicklung von „Fühlstrategien“ können hier Richtungsänderungen erfolgen. (DIPF/Orig.)
Schiffbruch für alle: Schmerz, Angst und Scham zwischen Politischer Idiotie und Ableismus
Authors: Boger Mai-Anh
Published: January 2025

Die Autorin erörtert die emotionalen Implikationen der Konzepte „Dummheit“ und „Idiotie“. Sie zeichnet zunächst (historische) Diskurstraditionen zum Dummheits- und Idiotiebegriff anhand der (Psycho-)Dynamik des Ableismus nach und veranschaulicht folgend „politische Idiotie“ entlang des „Schiffbruchs der Medusa“ als Beispiel aus dem kolonialen Kontext. Am Ende erfolgt eine Zusammenführung sowie ein Übertrag der emotionalen Grundierungen eines Dummheits- und Idiotieverständnisses auf den Ableismus, welcher sich gegen Menschen richtet, die in unserer Gesellschaft als lernbeeinträchtigt oder geistig behindert gelten. Als Fazit arbeitet die Autorin die Idiotie des Ableismus heraus als Verkennung universaler Vulnerabilität von Körper und Verstand. (DIPF/Orig.)
Aus Sicht der Phänomenologie. Fremderfahrung und Gefühl in der Betreuung
Authors: Stinkes Ursula
Published: January 2025

Die Autorin geht in ihrem Beitrag aus einer phänomenologischen Sicht der Fremderfahrung in der Betreuung nach und untersucht hierbei insbesondere die Bedeutung der Gefühle. Dabei versteht sie das Verhältnis von Fremderfahrung und Gefühlen als Geflecht: als Überkreuzung, Verstrickung oder Verwebung von verschiedenen Strängen, die sich trotz ihrer Verflechtung nicht ineinander auflösen oder zur Deckung kommen. Ausgehend von einem szenischen Beispiel, einer Interaktionssequenz zwischen einer betreuten und betreuenden Person, fokussiert die Autorin – neben der Bedeutung von Gefühlen für die Fremderfahrung – die Sozialität und das Pathos der Gefühle. (DIPF/Orig.)
It's no shame. Das Gefühl der Scham im Kontakt mit Menschen mit einer zugeschriebenen Behinderung
Authors: Weber Benjamin
Published: January 2025

Der Autor nimmt in seinen Ausführungen eine differenzierte Auseinandersetzung mit dem Gefühl der Scham im Kontakt mit Menschen mit zugeschriebener Behinderung vor. Aus philosophischer, psychologischer und phänomenologischer Perspektive akzentuiert er Verständnis und Konsequenzen von Scham. Auf der Basis ethischer Reflexionsfragen zum Schamgefühl schlägt er ein Modell der Scham vor, welches Scham als bedeutsames Gefühl der Reflexion von Verletzlichkeit (anderer und der eigenen) versteht und sowohl destruktive, als auch konstruktive Wirkung in Begegnungen und Beziehungen von Menschen mit und ohne zugeschriebene geistige Behinderung entfalten kann. (DIPF/Orig.)