bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of the COVID-19 Lockdown on Cancer Referrals in Primary Care in the UK: Two Years On
Authors: Whittle Olivia , Busby Lucy , Chambers Rebecca , Gittens Jayden
Published: October 2024

Background: Cancer is common, with most cancer patients presenting initially to a general practitioner. The COVID-19 pandemic led to changes in the delivery of primary care, which could have affected cancer referrals. This observational study looked at two-week cancer referrals (2WRs) made before, during and after the first UK COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, at a GP practice in the Wirral, England.
Methods: A search was conducted to find the cancer referrals made between 23rd March 2020 - 1st July 2020, during the first lockdown. Using the same methodology, cancer referral data was collected for the corresponding time periods in 2019 and 2021. The number of 2WRs and positive diagnostic yields were then compared.
Results: The number of cancer referrals decreased by 40.4% in 2020, compared to 2019. In 2021, the number of referrals then increased by 225%, compared to 2020. Overall, the number of cancer referrals increased between 2019-2021. The positive diagnostic yield for the 2020 2WRs increased by 251.4%, compared to that of 2019. The calculated yield for the 2021 data then decreased by 10.8% compared to 2020. Overall, the positive diagnostic yield increased between 2019-2021.
Conclusion: The numbers and outcomes of cancer referrals at this Wirral GP practice have changed considerably following the first UK COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, and the influence of the pandemic was still affecting cancer referrals in 2021. A greater focus on early cancer detection in primary care could help overcome the ways in which the pandemic has affected primary care delivery.
Case Report: An Atypical Sellar Mass - Sellar Tuberculoma in a Young Patient
Authors: Moiz Jamali Arwa , Luhana Rakeshkumar
Published: October 2024

Background: Tuberculosis of the central nervous system is an uncommon but one of the most severe forms. It manifests as tuberculoma and tuberculous meningitis, with the majority of cases affecting children and immunocompromised patients. Overall, tuberculomas make up to 0.15–2 % of all intracranial lesions but sellar tuberculoma is extremely rare.
The Case: An 18-year-old female patient presented with complaint of generalized weakness, eye pain and headache for 3-4 months. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain showed sellar and suprasellar space occupying lesion. Trans sphenoidal approach was used to remove the lesion completely. A sellar tuberculoma was confirmed on pathological evaluation and the patient was put on postoperative anti-tubercular therapy.
Conclusion: Although rare, intracranial tuberculomas, particularly those that originate in the sellar, are notorious for mimicking pituitary tumors by jeopardizing pituitary hormonal function and applying compressive forces on surrounding intracranial structures. However, a prompt assessment can help overcome this diagnostic difficulty with the timely initiation of anti-tubercular therapy (ATT).
A Scoping Review on the Utility of Ultrasound to Visualize Bursae in Anatomical Dissection Courses
Authors: Margenfeld Felix , Zendehdel Adib , Tamborrini Giorgio , Polzer Jennifer , Naville Marc , Poilliot Amélie , Müller-Gerbl Magdalena
Published: October 2024

Bursitis is a common condition in clinical practice, often causing pain in the shoulder and buttock areas due to inflamed bursae. Proper diagnosis and treatment depend on knowing the presence and exact location of these bursae. Anatomy classes typically provide limited instruction on bursae because they are difficult to demonstrate during dissection courses. High-resolution ultrasound is an essential and versatile technique for detecting bursitis, and it could also serve as a valuable tool for students to better understand bursae. Relevant studies were screened in the following databases: CENTRAL, MEDLINE, BIOSIS Previews, EMBASE, and Web of Science Core Collection. Grey literature was also considered. Literature was screened on January 3, 2023. Only ultrasound investigations in human cadaver bursae were included, specifically using B-Mode ultrasound. The general characteristics of the included studies and the ultrasound-guided approaches for labeling the bursae were analyzed and examined. T The search found 8,899 matches, but only 15 met the criteria. Fifteen different bursae were studied, and 12 studies were included in the analysis. Both the marking substrate and the injected volume varied. Despite a high overall accuracy of 99% achieved using ultrasound-guided labeling approaches in the included studies, caution is advised due to the small sample size (1 to 24). The current study serves as a review to examine ultrasound studies on bursae in human cadavers. Ultrasound-guided labeling techniques achieve high accuracy and could be a valuable teaching tool in dissection courses. These techniques help visualize difficult-to-dissect structures and provide students with an understanding of sonoanatomy.
Vascular Anomalies Review of the Head and Neck for Physicians in Training
Authors: Allred Caleb M. , Zenner Kaitlyn B. , Bonilla-Velez Juliana
Published: October 2024

A basic understanding of vascular anomalies will aid physicians-in-training as they seek to properly diagnose and determine interventions for these patient presentations. The aim of this review is to create a resource for physicians in training that encompasses the most important clinical aspects of vascular anomalies. Vascular anomalies of the head and neck are divided into two categories: vascular tumors and vascular malformations. This review will first describe vascular tumors followed by vascular malformations. This review discusses major pathology found in both categories of vascular anomaly. Vascular anomalies are frequently found in pediatric populations and can persist into adulthood, making it important for trainees to identify them on physical exam. This developing field seeks to improve form, function, and quality of life for patients with vascular anomalies and often requires a multidisciplinary approach (i.e., otolaryngology, dermatology, genetics, plastic surgery, interventional radiology). Various medical and surgical treatment options are available. A basic knowledge of these anomalies will allow for accurate, early diagnosis and appropriate intervention which can ultimately improve patient outcomes.  
Search Strategy and Selection Criteria: The MEDLINE/PubMed database was searched for primary research and reviews discussing various vascular anomalies which include infantile hemangioma, congenital hemangioma, pyogenic granuloma, tufted angioma, kaposiform hemangioendothelioma, capillary malformations, lymphatic malformations, venous malformations, and arteriovenous malformations. This search was conducted from 7/5/2023 to 3/21/2024.
Serum biochemical evaluation of healing of critical-sized long bone defects in rats treated with biphasic hydroxyapatite (HA) and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) bioceramic scaffolds
Authors:   Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology,College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, Thrissur- 680 651, Unni Ashok R. , Venugopal Syam K. , Martin K. D. John , Anoop S. , Maya S. Maya , Krishna B. Dhanush
Published: October 2024

Critical-sized long bone defects are those that would not heal spontaneously despite surgical stabilisation. The use of bioceramic scaffold has shown promising results in the repair of bone defects. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the serum biochemical parameters of Wistar rats treated for critical-sized segmental bone loss using biphasic hydroxyapatite (HA) and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) bioceramic scaffolds. The study was conducted in eighty male Wistar rats aged between 8-12 weeks, weighing 200-250 g body weight with critical-sized segmental defects in the femur. A 6 mm segmental mid-diaphyseal femoral defect was created under general anaesthesia. The bone defect was bridged with bioceramic scaffolds and retained in position with microplate and screws. Serum biochemical parameters serum calcium, phosphorous, acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase were evaluated four weeks before surgery, immediately after surgery and 4th, 8th, 12th, and 16th week after surgery. The evaluation of both serum calcium and phosphorous were found to be reliable indicators of new bone formation and mineralisation, whereas the evaluation of both serum acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase were found to be reliable indicators of bone healing during the treatment of critical-sized long bone defects in rats using biphasic hydroxyapatite and β-tricalcium phosphate bioceramic scaffolds Keywords: Beta-tricalcium phosphate, bioceramic scaffold, hydroxyapatite, serum acid phosphatase, serum alkaline phosphatase, serum calcium, serum phosphorous
Evaluation of specific fractions of Large White Yorkshire boar semen
Authors:   Department of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Drisya M. , Benjamin E. D. , Jayakumar C. , Unnikrishnan M. P. , Manoj M.
Published: October 2024

The current study was conducted to evaluate the quality of specific fractions of three Large White Yorkshire (LWY) boar semen samples. Fifteen semen samples were collected by gloved hand method as an initial 10 mL of sperm rich fraction (SRF- F1), remaining SRF (F2) and whole semen. Samples were evaluated for colour, volume, pH, sperm concentration and progressive motility. The first 10 mL of SRF of boar semen contained 25 per cent of the total ejaculate spermatozoa and was able to withstand cooling, freezing and thawing better than the spermatozoa of the bulk ejaculate. A significant difference between the fractions was observed in the volume of semen ejaculated, pH and sperm concentration across different fractions of the same ejaculate. The differences in semen fractions were attributed to the differences in the composition of seminal plasma of the initial fraction of SRF Keywords: Boar semen, sperm rich fraction, semen evaluation
Histomorphological features of pulmonary tuberculosis in Asian elephants (Elephas maximus)
Authors:   Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Abraham David , Deepa P.M. , Purnima C. , Bipin K.C. , Rajani C.V. , Vijayakumar K. , Anilkumar T.V.
Published: October 2024

Tuberculosis in Asian elephants usually shows involvement of lungs and associated lymph nodes. Grossly, the affected lobes of lungs reveal circumscribed lesions of varying sizes with central areas of caseation and necrosis. This report documents histomorphological features of pulmonary tuberculosis in six Asian elephants. The important cell types present were lymphocytes, foamy macrophages, epithelioid macrophages and Langhan’s type of giant cells. In addition, caseation necrosis, fibrotic capsule, and mineralisation (calcification) were also observed. Characteristic features of tuberculoid granulomas observed in the six cases showed similarities with other species. The six cases showed varying proportions of the seven defined features but all features were present together only in one case Keywords: Granuloma, histopathology
THE HISTORY OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGIN LANDS AND MODERN PROBLEMS IN AGRICULTURE IN SIBERIA
Authors: Boyko V.
Published: October 2024

A brief historical digression into the epic of the development of virgin lands in Siberia is given. 70 years after the start of this large-scale work, its long-term positive results in agronomic, economic and social terms are obvious. The mistakes made, which also have long-term environmental consequences, were more clearly identified. Decades of scientific and practical research have made it possible to form an agriculture system for various soil and climatic conditions, which is a platform for improvement.
Cosmological tensions
Authors: Kamionkowski Marc
Published: October 2024

The standard cosmological model has been extraordinarily successful in explaining a wealth of detailed data about the cosmic microwave background (CMB) and the galaxy distribution in the current Universe. The model requires, though, the introduction of some new form of matter to make up the dark matter and also some reason why the vacuum has a nonzero energy density. It also requires some new physics to explain the flatness of the early Universe and its primordial density perturbations. Finally, there has arisen, over the past decade, a discrepancy between the cosmological expansion rate inferred from the CMB and galaxy distribution and that obtained with local measurements. This "Hubble tension" is not easily resolved without the introduction of yet some more new physics. I will discuss these issues and some possible resolutions.
The Role of Social Workers in Assisting Patients' Adaptation to Health Conditions: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Mohammed AL Dosari, Alhanouf Saeed , Khalaf AL Shammari, Maram Hlayel , ’Allah AL Mutairy, Rehab Alhumaidi Raja , Aqall AL Solami, Khalid
Published: October 2024

Social workers play a crucial role in assisting patients to adapt to their health conditions, providing essential psychosocial support and resources. This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted role of social workers in healthcare settings, examining their contributions to patient well-being and adaptation. The review synthesizes findings from various empirical studies, theoretical frameworks, and current practices to provide a detailed understanding of how social workers facilitate patient adaptation. Key interventions include emotional support, resource connection, and advocacy, which have been shown to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. However, social workers also face significant challenges and barriers, such as limited resources and recognition. This review highlights the importance of integrating social work into healthcare teams and the need for policy support to enhance their effectiveness. Future research directions are identified to address gaps in the literature and further understand the impact of social workers on patient adaptation. This review underscores the critical role of social workers in healthcare and advocates for greater support and recognition of their contributions to patient care.
El día que fuimos perros
Authors: Garro Elena
Published: October 2024

Con un ingenio peculiar, muestra de la capacidad creativa de esta autora, Elena Garro nos regala unos cuentos increíbles sacados netamente de su imaginación. En El día que fuimos perros, la autora juega con la religión, la locura, los días, la amistad y bastantes tópicos más, que si los juntáramos todos (como es el caso del libro La semana de colores), podríamos apreciar la óptica y la mirada de una autora controversial, dinámica y bastante lúdica, con muchas historias que se antojan difíciles de contar, pero que Garro presenta en bandeja de plata, para el deleite de sus lectoras y lectores.
Quality Control of Triphala Churna
Authors: Parihar Arun Kumar Singh , Sahu Umakant , Karbhal Kamleshwar Singh , Inchulkar Shrikant Rambhau , Chauhan Nagendra Singh , Kulshreshtha Mayank Krishna
Published: October 2024

Article
Quality Control of Triphala Churna

Arun Kumar Singh Parihar 1, Umakant Sahu 1, Kamleshwar Singh Karbhal 1, Shrikant Rambhau Inchulkar 1, Nagendra Singh Chauhan 1,*, and Mayank Krishna Kulshreshtha 2

1 Drugs Testing Laboratory AvamAnusandhan Kendra, Raipur, Chhattisgarh 492010, India
2 Government Ayurved College, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh 495001, India 
* Correspondence: chauhan.nagendra@gmail.com; Tel. +919406558176

Received: 22 April 2024; Revised: 3 July 2024; Accepted: 15 July 2024; Published: 23 July 2024
 

Abstract: Objectives: Triphala Churna (TC) is a tridoshashamak Ayurvedic rasayana used for treating various diseases such as skin diseases, diabetes, and as a mild laxative. Methods: In this study, TC was prepared and quality standardized standardized using various parameters such as macroscopical evaluation, physical properties, physicochemical properties, and phytochemical analysis (HPTLC fingerprinting and quantification) methods to assess its quality and purity. Results: The qualitative and quantitative phytochemical assays via HPTLC revealed concentrations of Gallic acid as 3.62 ± 0.05%, 3.67 ± 0.04%, 1.52 ± 0.03%, and 2.96 ± 0.02% for Amlaki (Emblica officinalis), Haritiki (Terminalia chebula), Vibhitki (Terminalia bellerica), and TC, respectively. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into establishing robust quality control measures and developing reliable assays for both Triphala Churna (TC) and its individual components.
Identification of Uncertainty Cases in Robots with Focus on Additive Manufacturing Technology: A Mini Review
Authors: Kharmanda Ghais
Published: October 2024

Despite more than three decades since the beginning of Additive Manufacturing (AM), many challenges and issues prevent the industrialization of this technology. In fact, productivity is related to repetitive production of the same part under the same fabrication conditions. Currently, it is difficult to guarantee this repetitive production due to uncertainty issues, which represents the main obstacle of AM industrialization. In this paper, the uncertainty issues can be divided into two levels. The first level is related to the used AM machine itself which can be considered as robot of 3 degrees of freedom (x, y and z). In addition to its movement in three directions, this robot (AM machine) extrudes melted materials. The second level is related to the associated robots with 3D printing machines. In addition to summarizing some previous works and reviews, this mini review has the objective to provide new ideas to develop new strategies to overcome some uncertainty issues to contribute to the industrialization of AM technology. Furthermore, it paves the way to establish a concurrent AM / robotics loop in order to use AM for robotics and robotics for AM. The different developments should lead to elaborating Industrialization Standard for AM (IS4AM) where the different findings and recomm
Analysis of Learning Styles Based on Indonesian Language Learning Outcomes in Elementary School Students
Authors: Purbayani Rini , Nugraha Anggi Purwa , Ali Nabila Nurhaliza
Published: October 2024

Understanding students' learning styles is a key factor in effective learning, as it helps teachers optimize the teaching and learning process and improve student success. This study aims to examine the relationship between students' learning styles and learning outcomes in the Indonesian language subject. The research uses a survey method with a sample of 46 fifth-grade elementary school students using saturated sampling techniques. The results indicate that the majority of students have a kinesthetic learning style (43.5%), followed by visual learning styles (30.4%) and auditory styles (26.1%). The learning outcomes of visual learners are higher compared to the others, with an average score of 84.3 in the good category, while auditory learners perform better than kinesthetic learners but lower than visual learners, with an average score of 81.4 in the fair category, whereas kinesthetic learners have lower results compared to the others, with an average score of 79.5 in the fair category. This suggests that a teaching process that does not consider the diversity of learning styles can negatively impact students' learning outcomes. Therefore, teachers need to pay attention to students' learning styles to enhance learning effectiveness so that students' learning outcomes can be optimal.
A contribuição da comunicação organizacional para a (re)formação da identidade corporativa: estudo de caso em uma empresa produtora de materiais esportivos
Authors: Catto Camilo , Castro Flavia Santos de
Published: October 2024

Este estudo buscou compreender o impacto da comunicação organizacional e da gestão de relacionamento dos públicos para a formação da identidade corporativa de uma organização do setor esportivo. Entendido como um fator cultural e social, o esporte de uma forma geral e neste caso o futebol está enraizado na sociedade. Para atingir o objetivo do estudo, foi realizado um estudo de caso qualitativo em uma empresa produtora de materiais esportivos. Foram realizados entrevistas com gestores, descrição das redes sociais, além do mapeamento de seus públicos. Os resultados permitiram criar inferências sobre a relevância da comunicação para a formação da identidade a partir do contexto e atuação estratégica da organização, considerando o ambiente esportivo. Também, alguns fatores tais como a permanência da marca no mercado, a identificação gerada com o público nacional e a percepção de qualidade do material fabricado e a alta durabilidade foram determinantes para a formação da identidade. Ainda, ressalta-se a necessidade de novos estudos na área, principalmente quantitativos, que complementem este estudo e auxiliem no desenvolvimento de métricas específicas para a comunicação nas e das organizações esportivas.
Uncovering the universe of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS): understanding the mechanisms of action and adverse effects in an accessible and didactic way
Authors: Santos Michele Goulart dos , Nascimento Ruthinéia Jéssica Alves do , Ferreira Fernanda Carla Lima , Possas Hiran de Moura , Vescovi Vinicius
Published: October 2024

New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) constitute a heterogeneous group of drugs associated with a range of health harms, producing more intense effects than traditional drugs. NPS pose a challenge for public health policies due to the limited information available about their effects on the body. Understanding the primary effects of NPS and their mechanisms of action is crucial for guiding healthcare professionals and raising awareness about the dangers associated with their use. In this context, the aim of this study was to gather the most current scientific information on the mechanisms of action and adverse effects of NPS, transforming it into a simple and accessible educational material for the public. Based on the information collected in this review, it was possible to develop a playful educational tool that not only informs about the effects of NPS but also provides clear information about the mechanisms of action of these substances in the CNS, as currently known for the wide variety of NPS. By making this information accessible and understandable, the booklet contributes to public awareness and empowers individuals to make informed and responsible decisions about the use of psychoactive substances. Additionally, it serves as a valuable educational tool for healthcare professionals and educators.
Uma análise espacial dos casos de sífilis adquirido em um Departamento Regional de Saúde
Authors: Silva Rafael de Oliveira Leite da , Abreu Ana Carolina Nucci , Faria Andressa Batista , Moraes Gabriel de Almeida , Crús Giovanna Caires da , Franciscon Marília Soares , Sena Samara Gonçalves de , Camargo Thaline Mazzini Ribeiro de
Published: October 2024

A sífilis, causada pela bactéria Treponema pallidum, é uma infecção sexualmente transmissível que pode causar complicações graves ao longo do tempo, incluindo transmissão vertical. Este estudo analisou a incidência de sífilis adquirida no Departamento Regional de Saúde II (DRS II) de São Paulo, abrangendo 40 municípios, no perído de 2016 a 2022. O estudo utilizou uma abordagem ecológica observacional, com análise espacial das taxas de detecção da sífilis por município, aplicando técnicas de autocorrelação espacial por meio do Índice de Moran. Os resultados mostraram um aumento geral na taxa de detecção da sífilis no DRS II, com destaque para Araçatuba, que apresentou um aumento significativo. A análise geoespacial global univariada revelou uma autocorrelação espacial significante (p < 0,05). Em relação às correlações bivariadas com aspectos socioeconômicos, a renda per capita e proporção de pobres tiveram resultado positivo, a taxa de analfabetismo, por sua vez, teve autocorrelação negativa. As disparidades regionais observadas destacam a necessidade de intervenções de saúde pública direcionadas, que levem em consideração as particularidades locais.
Roots, Rootlessness, and Uprooting: Personal, Ethnographic, and Folkloric Reflections on a Theme
Authors: White Marilyn M.
Published: October 2024

This address examines the theme, “Roots, Rootlessness, and Uprooting,” of the 2023 American Folklore Society (AFS) Annual Meeting. I explore parts of my own journey as a folklorist by considering my professional origin story; ethnographic fieldwork experiences with my own family, the Buraku of Japan, and the people of Little Cayman; membership in various folklore communities, including the Association of African and African American Folklorists; and some of the history of American Folklore Society.
Re-fitting the Misfit
Authors: Ebenezersdóttir Eva Þórdís
Published: October 2024

Using an interdisciplinary approach combining folkloristics and disability studies, I argue that a specific category of nineteenth-century Icelandic ghost stories reflects a sociocultural process of re-defining human individuals with intellectual disabilities as supernatural beings. The legends depicting this process of re-fitting are revealed as narratives offering culture-specific guiding principles for understanding and engaging with people with intellectual disabilities. As ghosts, disruptive and challenging human misfits could be accepted as “normal” supernatural beings.
Potensi Inovasi Indonesia di Tengah Bonus Demografi: Menjawab Tantangan Global
Authors: Syakirul Niam  , Betty Silfia Ayu Utami
Published: October 2024

Indonesia’s demographic bonus, marked by a large working-age population, offers significant potential to drive economic growth and innovation. However, despite this demographic advantage, Indonesia faces challenges in workforce quality, investment in research and development (R&D), and technological infrastructure. According to the Global Innovation Index 2023, Indonesia ranks 62nd out of 132 countries in innovation. The low proportion of skilled workers and the lack of formal training programs within companies exacerbate the innovation gap. To fully leverage its demographic potential, Indonesia needs comprehensive policy reforms in education and R&D, increased investment in human capital, and strengthened technological infrastructure. Without these improvements, the demographic bonus risks turning into a long-term burden rather than a catalyst for innovation and economic growth.
Pengaruh Kualitas Produk, Kualitas Pelayanan, Persepsi Harga dan Cita Rasa Terhadap Kepuasan Konsumen di Ragusa Es Krim Italia Jakarta
Authors: Sandi Rahmat Saputra  , Reni Anggraini
Published: October 2024

Kemajuan ekonomi telah mendorong pertumbuhan dan perkembangan dunia usaha, khususnya di sektor kuliner, termasuk hidangan penutup (dessert). Minat terhadap es krim di Indonesia sangat tinggi sehingga bisnis ini cukup menarik bagi para pengusaha. Berdasarkan data penjualan es krim di Indonesia, terdapat antusias yang cukup tinggi konsumen terhadap hidangan penutup terutama produk es krim. Mengetahui serta menganalisis pengaruh kualitas produk, kualitas pelayanan, persepsi harga, dan cita rasa baik secara parsial maupun simultan terhadap kepuasan konsumen di Ragusa Es Krim Italia Jakarta serta variabel yang paling dominan pengaruhnya. Sampel diperoleh melalui teknik accidental sampling dengan jumlah 150, dengan data primer yag dievaluasi melalui pendekatan analisis regresi linier berganda. Temuan penelitian memaparkan bahwasannya kepuasan pelanggan dipengaruhi secara positif baik secara parsial ataupun simultan oleh kualitas produk, kualitas pelayanan, persepsi harga, dan cita rasa, sementara persepsi harga merupakan variabel paling signifikan yang memengaruhi kepuasan konsumen di Ragusa Italian Ice Cream Jakarta.
KOMPETENSI GURU DALAM PENYUSUNAN INSTRUMEN PENILAIAN MATA PELAJARAN PENDIDIKAN AGAMA ISLAM
Authors: Uljanah Nida , Amaliyah Putri Ayu , Dalili Cut Intan , Apriyanto Dwi , Fathurrohman F
Published: October 2024

Teacher competence is a very important aspect to improve the quality of education. The competencies that must be owned by a teacher consist of pedagogic, personality, professional and social competencies. Whereas PAI learning is a process of forming knowledge, attitudes and skills through fact-based cognitive performance and contextual socio-religious phenomena. The formulation of the problems in this study are: 1) What are the scopes of PAI learning?, 2) What competencies must a teacher have?, and 3) What are the principles and techniques in preparing PAI assessment instruments?. The purpose of this study was to determine the scope of Islamic religious education learning, describe the competencies that must be possessed by a teacher, and find out what principles and techniques are used in compiling Islamic religious education assessment instruments. This research is expected to provide benefits for all education stakeholders to be used as a reference in improving teacher competence. The method used in this research is library research with a qualitative approach.
A Comparative Study of The Application of NPV And IRR To Real Estate Investment Decision- Making
Authors: Zhang Chi
Published: October 2024

The China real estate industry is undergoing a fluctuation nowadays. And this paper is going to investigate this industry by researching a leading enterprise, CHINA VANKE CO., LTD. with the assistance of two financial instruments, Net Present Value (NPV) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR). Furthermore, the paper has another purpose that is comparing the properties between NPV and IRR. This paper uses literature research method and case study to analyse the situation of Vanke and list the possible considerations while having the analysis. After a series of research, the author considers NPV as a better indicator compared to IRR. NPV has the advantage of simple marginal determination, however, the related indicator, discount rate cannot be determined easily and accurately in the real estate analysis since it can be affected by many factors. For advantage of IRR, it is simple to calculate the value because it is only decided by the cashflows. On the other hand, IRR cannot clarify the real estate investment decision-making by itself, it must have the assistance of NPV versus discount rate graph. Consequently, the mixed employment would present a clearer and more comprehensive analysis for investors.
Exploring a novel lung sealant based on functionalized polyoxazolines
Authors: Hermans Bob
Published: October 2024

The lung is an intricate organ, comprising of tiny sacs that hold air, with a structure that somewhat resembles that of a sponge, being capable of holding up to five to six liters of air. Lung cancer still affects approximately two million people worldwide on a yearly basis, and surgery is often required. After surgery, about one in ten patients develop prolonged air leakage, which increases complications and mortality. Surgeons use a variety of techniques, including sutures, staplers and lung sealing devices (patches, sprays and glues) to repair injury to the lung. These lung sealing devices are promising for repairing lung injury, especially in diseased lung where sutures or staplers may cause tears in the lung, but currently are not sufficiently effective. This thesis investigates a novel lung sealing device, a patch based on functionalized polyoxazolines. First, studies are conducted to ensure methodological validity, including validation of air leak measurements, systematic review into animal models of air leakage and validation of a sheep model of acute air leakage. The novel lung sealant is then tested on ex-vivo porcine lungs, a sheep model of acute air leakage and a long-term biocompatibility model.
Deep Learning for Clinical Practice.
Authors: Sogancioglu Ecem
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the application of deep learning to enhance chest X-ray analysis, addressing key challenges in clinical diagnostics. Chapter 2 reviews around 300 studies on chest X-ray interpretation with deep learning, identifying critical research gaps and guiding future work. Chapter 3 introduces a segmentation-based approach for detecting cardiomegaly, demonstrating improved performance and explainability over commonly used classification-based approaches. Chapter 4 focuses on deep learning techniques for estimating total lung volume from chest X-rays, revealing the potential of new capabilities beyond standard visual assessments. Chapter 5 presents the NODE21 research challenge, designed to benchmark state-of-the-art methods for lung nodule detection and generation, highlighting the benefits of synthetic image generation when real data is limited. The thesis underscores the potential of automated systems to enhance diagnostic accuracy, reduce radiologists workloads, and support clinical decision-making, ultimately contributing to the development of clinically relevant AI tools for medical imaging.
Shade trees and shade management in cardamom
Authors: Radhakrishnan V. , Madhusoodanan K. , Mohanan K.
Published: October 2024

Small Cardamom is a pseophytic cash crop grown on plantation scale under the shade of natural evergreen forests of Western Ghats of South India. The shade canopy provides suitable environment by maintaining humidity and evaporation at suitable level. Trees belonging to 32 families of Angiosperms constitute the major tree flora in the Cardamom hills of South India. It is desirable to maintain a mixed population of medium sized shade trees that facilitate shade regulation and to maintain more or less optimum conditions throughout the year. The main considerations while selecting shade trees are adaptability to climate, rate of growth and ease of establishment. The major shade trees that are suitable for the cardamom tracts of Kerala state of India are Artocarpus heterophyllus, Toona ciliata, Acrocarpus fraxinifolius, Dysoxylum malabaricum, Palagium ellipticum, Terminalia tomentosa, Terminalia paniculata, Pterocarpus marsupium, Canarium strictum, Vitex altissima, Hopea parviflora and Grewia tiliaefolia.
Real-world cost-effectiveness studies: How to deal with confounding?
Authors:   , Varga Anita Natália
Published: October 2024

Cost-effectiveness research is an essential tool in healthcare decision-making, enabling the comparison of interventions based on their incremental costs and effects. While traditionally conducted alongside Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), there is a growing interest in complementary Real-World Data (RWD) analysis for Cost-Effectiveness Analysis (CEA). In order for healthcare decision-makers to make valid reimbursement decisions, it is essential that the results of CEAs are both valid and applicable to a broader context. While RCTs offer high internal validity, their generalizability can be limited. Therefore, RWD is increasingly being recognized as a valuable source of information that can complement RCT data. RWD offers advantages over RCTs, such as better generalizability because of less strict patient selection and reflection of actual treatment patterns, but come with complexities, like confounding and missing observations. Confounding, stemming from the non-random allocation of treatment, presents a significant challenge in RWD analysis and requires careful adjustment to avoid biased estimates. In this thesis, the concepts of time-fixed and time-dependent confounding are distinguished, with the latter being more common in longitudinal studies. Various methods for dealing with confounding have been proposed, but their performance in different scenarios remains unclear. Within the context of CEA, this thesis aims to clarify terminology, review methods for adjusting confounding, and compare the performance of different techniques in CEA studies using RWD. Firstly, this thesis aimed to bridge the gap between epidemiologists and economists by providing a glossary that equips participants in interdisciplinary collaborations with the essential shared vocabulary (Chapter 2). Next, the thesis provides a scoping review of methods available for addressing time-invariant confounding (Chapter 3). Following the identification of a wide range of methods, the aim was to evaluate the most promising ones and compare them with current research practices in the context of CEA (Chapter 4). This exploration expanded the research question by building upon the time-invariant confounding study. It introduced time-dependent confounding to the simulation setup by adding an extra time point (Chapter 5). Finally, in the general discussion, insights and recommendations for improving the validity and reliability of CEA using RWD are provided based on the scoping review and simulation studies included in this thesis (Chapter 6).
Overcoming barriers
Authors:   , Izquierdo Lafuente Beatriz
Published: October 2024

Tuberculosis remains a significant global health challenge, claiming over a million lives annually, and the emergence of drug-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complicates efforts to eradicate the disease. Researchers are intensifying their search for new drug targets, focusing particularly on the type VII secretion system in pathogenic mycobacteria, using Mycobacterium marinum as a model.
Our research aimed to gain more information about the permeability of the mycobacteria cell envelope. We investigated some substrates, believed to be membrane proteins involved in specific functions necessary for the pathogenesis of M. tuberculosis. These proteins belonged to the type VII secretion system subclassified into five types, ESX-1 to ESX-5. With our study, we further characterize the role of the different secretion system subtypes and their importance in the pathogenesis, nutrient uptake and membrane permeability of mycobacteria.
In Chapter 2, we characterize CpnT, the major cytotoxic factor of M. tuberculosis and elucidate how it is secreted during infection in macrophages.
Chapter 3 provides details on the transport of a big water-soluble molecule, vitamin B12, and how membrane permeability impacts this transport.
Chapter 4 investigates further this B12 transport system. A new protein was found to participate in the B12 uptake. Characteristics regarding how this protein is secreted are also studied here.
In Chapter 5, we characterize a protein involved in glucose and glycerol uptake. This protein appears to be also linked to outer membrane integrity in mycobacteria.
In Chapter 6, we summarize and reflect on the results obtained in this thesis. We also discuss the implications of our work in the mycobacteria research field.
Empirical Econometric Studies on the Economic Growth of Developing Countries
Authors:   , Sampi Bravo James Robert Ezequiel
Published: October 2024

This thesis delves into the various factors influencing economic growth, aiming to provide valuable insights for policymakers. It comprises four chapters, each exploring different aspects of growth using accessible methods and empirical data. This summary offers a non-technical overview and potential future directions for each chapter.

In Chapter 2, I challenge the traditional view that productivity growth follows an exponential pattern. By examining data from 53 countries, the results reveal that high-income countries may exhibit an additive growth pattern, contrary to the well-established exponential assumption. However, limited evidence of additive growth is found for middle-income countries. Future research could explore the hypothesis of a productivity function evolving over time from exponential to linear by considering time-varying parameters.

Chapter 3 introduces a multi-sector, multi-country model to disentangle growth spillovers within and between countries, demonstrating how domestic and external policies influence growth. We propose a novel econometric approach that allows for time-varying spillovers, challenging standard literature. By understanding these growth spillovers, policymakers can better target their efforts to enhance economic performance. Further research could delve deeper to generate sector-specific spillover effects.

The last two chapters focus on Peru. In Chapter 4, we investigate the impact of removing bureaucratic barriers on firm productivity. A legislative change in 2013 empowered the Peruvian competition authority to eliminate these barriers nationwide. The study reveals that this removal led to a substantial 10 percent boost in productivity for affected firms. This finding is particularly relevant for developing countries, as it underscores the importance of reducing bureaucratic obstacles to foster economic growth. Future analyses could explore the impact of competition on other relevant variables, such as employment or wages.

Chapter 5 examines the effects of natural disasters on food prices in Peru. We demonstrate that when disasters like heavy rain or drought occur, food prices tend to rise. Interestingly, this increase is driven more by declines in production rather than changes in consumer demand, challenging some existing theories about price reactions during crises.

Throughout the thesis, I emphasize the need for sophisticated analysis to understand the complexities of economic growth. By employing various empirical methods, this research aims to equip policymakers with the tools necessary to design effective economic policies. Several chapters have been published in reputable academic journals, highlighting their relevance and contribution to the field of economic growth research. Overall, the work underscores the intricate relationship between policies, productivity, and external factors in shaping economic outcomes.
Теоретичні аспекти модернізації місцевого самоврядування в умовах європейської інтеграції
Authors: Лахижа М. І. , Качан Я. В.
Published: October 2024

Модернізація публічної адміністрації за європейськими стандартами є обов’язковою умовою інтеграції України до Європейського Союзу. Актуальним завданням є з’ясування теоретичних аспектів цього процесу. Метою даного дослідження є узагальнення сучасних теоретичних підходів до проблеми модернізації місцевого самоврядування з урахуванням завдань європеїзації. Окремі положення статті апробовані  авторами під час доповідей на міжнародних науково-практичних конференціях, присвячених питанням реформування місцевого самоврядування. Компаративний аналіз дозволив розглядати формування та модернізацію місцевого самоврядування як складову  посткомуністичної трансформації на прикладі кількох посткомуністичних країн. Наукова новизна дослідження полягає у виділенні, систематизації та узагальненні теоретичних аспектів процесу реформ в посткомуністичних країнах, що  дозволяє краще зрозуміти загальні риси та особливості модернізації публічної адміністрації загалом та територіального самоврядування, зокрема. Простежено специфіку процесу демократизації та її взаємозв’язок і взаємовплив з модернізацією територіального самоврядування. Наголошено на важливості кадрового забезпечення публічного управління та необхідності посилення уваги до етики публічної служби. Стаття має теоретичне та практичне значення – узагальнення процесів модернізації місцевого самоврядування  та виявлення їх особливостей може бути використано в Україні в процесі досягнення європейських стандартів публічного управління.
O LUGAR DAS INSTITUIÇÕES MUSEOLÓGICAS NA SOCIEDADE: O CASO DE TAUBATÉ-SP
Authors: Duarte Abdala Rachel , M. Novaes Victor Nathália , De Moura Garrido Mírian Cristina
Published: October 2024

O objetivo, neste artigo, é analisar o lugar que as instituições museológicas ocupam nas sociedades, a partir de estudo de caso na cidade de Taubaté - SP, na qual existe uma quantidade significativa de museus: um conjunto de dez instituições. Para realização da análise foram considerados os contextos sociais brasileiros e o da cidade pesquisada, correlacionando-os aos dados de pesquisas realizadas pelo Instituto Brasileiro de Museus. Metodologicamente, foi realizada pesquisa na documentação dos museus da cidade e pesquisa de campo sobre seus aspectos estruturais, considerando-se a história institucional, a curadoria das exposições permanentes, a infraestrutura e o fluxo de visitantes. Com relação a este último elemento, o foco recaiu sobre o Museu Histórico, Folclórico e Pedagógico Monteiro Lobato, o mais visitado da cidade. Concluiu-se que o lugar dos museus nas sociedades é composto pela existência concreta das instituições e pela relação de sua história com o contexto social, e que o caso de Taubaté apresenta aspectos específicos, aqui estudados.
APRESENTAÇÃO DE DOSSIÊ
Authors: De Castro Pereira Gomes Ana Luiza , Minin Martin Andrey , Areias Costa Manuela , Pires Lott Wanessa
Published: October 2024

A articulação entre a História e o Patrimônio vem assumindo contornos mais abrangentes na atualidade, na medida em que articula espaços geográficos, experiências de vida cotidiana e a edificação de construções, situações estas em que a atividade humana e a História entrelaçam-se na construção da memória. Quando em 1937 foi criado o Instituto do Patrimônio Histórico e Artístico Nacional (IPHAN) os bens materiais foram privilegiados. A partir da década de 1970 e com os debates em torno da ampliação do conceito de Patrimônio Cultural, começaram a ser introduzidos os bens culturais imateriais nas políticas de acautelamento. Mais recentemente, com o objetivo de promover uma maior interlocução entre bens materiais e imateriais, foi introduzido o conceito de Paisagens Culturais, que busca entrelaçar o momento histórico com as atividades culturais, com os modos de produção e com as vivências das comunidades na natureza. Pretende-se, com esse novo caminho, valorizar bens e vivências culturais que não podem ser analisadas isoladamente em suas feições naturais, materiais e imateriais. Desta maneira, o Patrimônio deixa de ser apenas um adjetivo dado a um bem cultural e passa a cumprir sua função social com um bem salvaguardado vivido pela sociedade no tempo presente. A partir da ideia de continuidade presente na História, a comunidade local é capaz de (re) interpretar os bens tombados agregando a sua vivência cotidiana do presente. Sendo, possível, entrelaçar e conectar o passado ao presente, escolhendo o que deve ser lembrado e o que deve ser esquecido. Este processo extrapola a referência do tempo histórico no qual o bem foi construído, cabendo à sociedade reafirmar este momento histórico ou valorizar as memórias construídas nos tempos mais atuais ou apenas esquecer os passados vinculados a este bem. Diante do exposto, este dossiê pretende reunir estudos que abordem de maneira conectada – História e Patrimônio – tendo em consideração as interpretações construídas pela sociedade de bens patrimoniais materiais e imateriais. Neste viés, as relações de tais bens com as vivências culturais bem como com a natureza se mostram como um campo profícuo de (re) construção da memória. Ademais, é pertinente a este dossiê os estudos sobre as Políticas Públicas que caminham nesta direção e que privilegiam a relação da sociedade com a vivência cotidiana diante do bem tombado. Estudos de adaptação dos bens patrimoniais para usos atuais também se mostram de grande interesse para esta revista. Desta maneira, nos distanciamos de narrativas do passado que buscam apenas a rememoração e o congelamento de um dado tempo histórico sem que haja a possibilidade de apreensão do movimento fluido da memória em caminho com o tempo presente. Em um jogo de lembranças, esquecimentos e silenciamentos inerentes à constituição da vivência humana diante de seus bens patrimoniais.