bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Shaping Tomorrow's Doctors: The Impact of Socioeconomic and Institutional Factors on Medical Education Quality in Brazil - an ecological study
Authors: Brito Quécia Hosana Fatel , Silva Flávia G M , Avena Katia Miranda , Menezes Rodrigo C. , Andrade Bruno B. , Quintanilha Luiz Fernando 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background.
Education holds transformative power in society, driving economic and social development. In medical education, training quality leads to well-prepared physicians and directly impacts patient care. In Brazil, a key measure of medical training quality is the National Student Performance Exam (Enade). This study aims to analyze the institutional, social, and economic determinants of the quality of medical education in Brazil through Enade scores.
Methods.
An ecological study was conducted with all Brazilian higher education institutions participating in the Enade for the Medicine undergraduate course in the last 5 editions. Group comparisons and a multivariable logistic regression model were conducted to examine the associations between institutional, social, and economic aspects with the Enade score, categorizing institutions into high and low/medium score groups.
Results.
Considering all editions, the average Enade score of medical schools in Brazil was 2.8. Geographic location was a determining factor of Enade results. The highest proportion of high scores was observed in South (62.4%) and Central-West (57.3%) regions, and low scores in the North (76.4%), Southeast (64.1%) and Northeast (52.6%). The proportion of medical schools with high Enade scores increased over time (p < 0.001), and they demonstrated significantly higher performance in general knowledge tests (+ 10.6%; 64.4 vs 58.20) and specific knowledge tests (+ 16.0%; 65.4 vs 56.4). Institutional factors associated with better student performance in Enade included a well-rated didactic-pedagogical organization (OR: 1.62 [CI: 1.10–2.40]), a more qualified faculty (OR: 1.81 [CI: 1.27–2.59]), and being publicly administered (OR: 5.74 [CI: 3.44–9.95]).
Conclusion.
This study highlights significant variations in training quality among medical schools nationwide, with the Center-South region showing a higher proportion of institutions achieving high Enade scores compared to more socioeconomically vulnerable regions in Brazil. Institutional characteristics such as a well-rated didactic-pedagogical organization, a highly qualified faculty, and public administration are associated with better exam performance.
Relationship between contrast-enhanced ultrasound combined with ultrasound resolution microscopy imaging and histological features of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Feiqian , Yu Jingtong , Lu Xingqi , Numata Kazushi , Ruan Litao , Zhang Dong , Liu Xi , Li Xiaojing , Wan Mingxi , Zhang Wenbin , Zhang Guanjun 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Using contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and ultrasound resolution microscopy (URM) imaging, this study aimed to evaluate the relationship between microvascular parameters of small hepatocellular carcinoma (sHCC) (≤ 3 cm) and microscopic histological features, which include vessels encapsulating tumour clusters (VETC), microvascular invasion (MVI), and histological grade.
Methods
Sixteen patients with solitary resected sHCC were prospectively enrolled. CEUS and URM were performed one week before resection. All “ratio” refers to comparisons between the active area (where CEUS microbubble show visible motion track by URM) and the entire lesion. Blood vessel complexity (ratio), blood vessel density (ratio), area (ratio), flow velocity, blood vessel diameter, and perfusion index (“flow velocity” × “vessel ratio”) were analysed using URM. The relationships between URM parameters and microscopic histological features (MVI, VETC, and histological grade) were analysed.
Results
There were 5 (31.3%), 8 (50%), and 7 (43.7%) cases of poorly differentiated, MVI-positive, and VETC-positive HCC, respectively. The mean velocity of the entire lesion was higher in the poorly differentiated group than that in the moderately differentiated group (p = 0.026). The complexity ratio (MVI-positive: 1.07 ± 0.03, MVI-negative: 1.03 ± 0.02, p = 0.012), area ratio (MVI-positive: 0.63 ± 0.18, MVI-negative: 0.39 ± 0.16, p = 0.017), and perfusion index (MVI-positive: 8.67 ± 1.88, MVI-negative: 6.42 ± 0.94, p = 0.009) were greater in MVI-positive HCCs. The density ratio (VETC-positive: 1.30 ± 0.19, VETC-negative: 1.10 ± 0.05, p = 0.006) was larger in VETC-positive HCCs.
Conclusion
Higher blood flow velocity and area of HCC lesions, and higher blood vessel complexity and density may be related to microscopic histological features. This relationship might provide a strategy of using URM for preoperative non-invasive diagnostic VETC, MVI, and histological grade in the future.
Optimisation of Petroleum Product Transportation by Multimodal Transport During Martial Law
Authors: Zelenko Yulia , Cherkudinov Volodymyr , Tarasov Vsevolod , Soroka Maksym 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The hostilities in Ukraine have significantly changed the logistics of petroleum product supply. Overland routes via EU countries, in particular Poland, Romania and the Baltic states, have become the main transport solution. Rail transport remains the main mode of transportation for petroleum products, providing significant volumes, but faces the challenges of low capacity and delays at the borders. Road transport is showing growth due to the flexibility required in the crisis. The relevance of the work is determined by the need to increase the efficiency of logistics in the face of rising costs of transport resources and economic challenges that may be associated with a large number of both direct and indirect factors (economic, technological, political, security, etc.), the analytical set of which indicates the vulnerability of the security system for the transport of high-risk cargo.
Insights into the culture of the Sicilian Epigravettian populations. Objects, ornaments and tools from trench M in the cave of San Teodoro (Acquedolci, Messina, Italy)
Authors: Vita Gerlando , Calabrese Nunziatina , Vraca Massimiliana Pinto , Romano Arianna , Vizzini Mirko Andrea , Sineo Luca 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Renewed excavations at Grotta di San Teodoro Acquedolci in Sicily, a significant Pleistocene site for studying both fauna and ancient human populations, focused on a newly opened excavation area named Trench M. This vertical cavity, approximately 2 meters deep and averaging less than 80 cm in width, revealed layers rich in Epigravettian artefacts, charcoal, and food remains. The excavation unearthed three distinct layers: a superficial layer compromised by modern pollutants, a middle layer containing meal remnants and rare Bronze Age ceramics, and a deeper layer (M3) resembling previously identified Epigravettian occupation layers elsewhere in the cave. Discoveries from M3 include distinctive artefacts such as perforated marine shells with red pigment traces, polished stone pendants, and tools indicative of symbolic and industrial activities. These findings underscore the sophisticated resource management and symbolic practices of the Epigravettian inhabitants. This study contributes valuable insights into the cultural dynamics and material culture of this ancient Sicilian community.
Validation of the Connected Classroom Climate Inventory in post-graduate health science degrees and the relationship with clinical self-efficacy
Authors: Nixon Grace , Patrick Cameron James 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Fostering connectedness among tertiary education students has been linked to positive academic outcomes and University experience. Further, a sense of connectedness with peers has been linked to the development of stronger interpersonal skills. However, little research has examined peer connectedness specifically in postgraduate health science cohorts, where skills like empathy are crucial in graduate clinical careers. This study examined the content validity of the Connected Classroom Climate Inventory (CCCI) in postgraduate health science students, and its construct validity in relation to self-efficacy for clinical skills. Students completed two questionnaires: the CCCI (Dwyer et al., 2004), and the Self-Efficacy Scale (SES) (Kang et al., 2019). The CCCI measures students' perceptions of connectedness with their peers. The SES measures self-perceived clinical competence, and the questionnaires were modified to reflect audiology or social work skills. In a sample of 72 Masters students from audiology and social work programs, the 20-item CCCI demonstrated excellent internal consistency (α = 0.94). The CCCI scores showed a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.46, p = 0.001) with scores on the SES for degree-specific clinical skills. These findings provide evidence for the content and construct validity of the CCCI in this postgraduate population. The positive association between CCCI and self-efficacy suggests that promoting connectedness could benefit the development of self-efficacy and preparedness for clinical practice. By reliably measuring connectedness using the validated CCCI, universities can identify students who may need support, evaluate interventions, and optimize learning environments for postgraduate health science students.
Refining the Impact of Quantum Noise: From Chaotic Effects to Contribution in Randomness Generation
Authors: Biswas Rounak , Roy Utpal 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Quantum noise, typically considered an obstacle in quantum computing, provides novel prospects in random number generation. This research investigates the possibility of several forms of quantum noise as significant resources for producing high-quality randomness. The study employed simulations of random quantum circuits to examine the effects of bit-flips, phase-flips, and depolarizing noise at different intensities. We conducted the simulations in a controlled setting using the Qiskit Aer simulator, which we selected for its ability to accurately mimic noise effects and replicate the behaviour of actual quantum gear. The research indicated that bit-flip and depolarizing noise consistently produced more significant amounts of unpredictability than phase-flip and noiseless circuits. Applying the produced binary sequences to the NIST Statistical Test Suite corroborated the discovery, confirming their superior quality and appropriateness for applications requiring random numbers. The study suggests that we can efficiently use quantum noise to create safe randomness, which offers significant benefits for encryption, simulations, and other domains that demand genuine unpredictability.
LUNG-GPT: Lung sound analysis with LLM-Based model
Authors: Islam Tasnim 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Lung diseases, such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), are becoming increasingly prevalent due to environmental pollution and unhealthy lifestyle choices, posing significant challenges for real-time monitoring and diagnosis. This study introduces Lung-GPT, a Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (GPT)-based model designed to analyze lung sounds collected from digital stethoscopes. Using data from the ICBHI challenge dataset and real-time measurements from the WEARME device, the model provides a comprehensive approach to disease classification and symptom detection. Key contributions of this research include the development of a Large Language Model (LLM)-based classifier capable of distinguishing between COPD, healthy, and other lung conditions, as well as segmentation models designed to detect and quantify wheezes and crackles in lung sound data. These models are further integrated with the WEARME device, enabling real-time detection and analysis of respiratory anomalies. The Lung-GPT model demonstrated robust performance, achieving a classification accuracy of up to 92% for COPD and effective segmentation outcomes. This work underscores the potential of transformer-based architectures in advancing lung sound analysis and monitoring solutions, with future improvements aimed at incorporating additional lung sound features for enhanced diagnostic precision.
Growth performance and rumen microbial loads of west african dwarf rams fed diet containing garlic (Allium sativum) meal
Authors: Jinadu Kabiru Babatunde , Adekanbi Oyefunke Abidemi , Abdulsalam Sherifdeen , Olayide Akingbade Aderemi , Abdulkabir Anif Olalekan , Adeleke Osinubi Aanuoluwapo , Akinwande Amos Adedayo , Omokafe Felix Emmanuel 
Published: December 2024

The study investigated the effects of Garlic (Allium sativum) on growth performance and rumen microbial loads of West African Dwarf (WAD). Twenty-five (25) WAD rams with an average live weight of 17.38±0.04 kg were used in a completely randomized design for 16 weeks. Five concentrate diets containing varying levels (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 %) of Allium Sativum were formulated while Panicum maximum was fed as a basal diet. Rumen fluid was collected at the end of feeding trial to determine rumen microbial loads. Data collected were subjected to one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Results showed the daily dry matter grass intake was found to be higher at 2 % inclusion level (348.51 g/day) and lowest at 0.5 % inclusion which were significantly affected (p<0.05) by inclusion levels of garlic meal. The best feed conversion ratio (FCR) was obtained (8.54) at 1 % inclusion compared to rams fed meal at 0 % which has 10.97 feed conversion ratio (FCR). The total bacterial values ranged from 2.87x107 cfu/ml to 4.47x107 cfu/ml in rams feed containing 1.0 % garlic meal which were significantly affected (p<0.05) by inclusion levels of garlic meal. The highest total protozoan counts 5.00x105 cfu/ml was obtained with rams fed diets containing 1.0 % garlic meal while the lowest total protozoan count 2.67x105 cfu/ml was recorded with diets containing 0.0 % garlic meal which was significantly affected (p<0.05) by inclusion levels. It was therefore concluded that Allium sativum meal can be incorporated into the diets of rams at 1 % for effective rumen fermentation and better nutrient utilization of West African Dwarf rams without any adverse effects on the health status of experimental rams
Land use land cover detections using MODIS MCD12Q1 V6.1 and ESRI Sentinel-2 datasets in the Lake Chamo catchment
Authors: Yoshe Agegnehu Kitanbo 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT
Understanding the change dynamics of land use and land cover (LULC) has a critical influence on hydrological characteristics of a watershed, economic development, ecological variation, and climate changes, and has been used to resolve the current dilemmas between land, water, energy, and the food sector. It is also essential as the change observed reflects the status of the environment and provides input parameters for sustainable natural resource management and optimization. The Chamo catchment has undergone a large change in LULC which has increased the soil erosion and lake sedimentation. In this paper, long-term variations in LULC were evaluated using MODIS and ESRI Sentinel-2 datasets. As a result, a significant variation in LULC was observed in the study area from 2001 to 2022. Spatial and temporal variations of LULC were observed between the two datasets. Based on MODIS, grassland was the dominant LULC class, whereas for ESRI, rangeland and cropland were the dominant LULC. The result of the study was essential for policy-makers and stakeholders for management of sustainable economic development, lake water management, ecological maintenance, and climatic change adoption pathways. The findings of the study provided evidence that MODIS and ESRI Sentinel-2 are effective datasets used for detecting LULC variations that be applied in different areas.
Do users' perceptions of neighbors' cleaning behavior of shared sanitation facilities act as a credible threat in urban low-income communities? A case study of Khulna City, Bangladesh
Authors: Kikuchi Michiko , Azad-uz-zaman Qazi 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT
Shared sanitation facilities in low-income urban communities are at risk of the ‘tragedy of the commons’. Using a questionnaire survey of 402 respondents from four communities in Khulna, Bangladesh, this study explored the game structure of each community by categorizing them into four groups based on respondents' perceptions of their own and others' cooperative habits. The results indicated that the structure of the communities with a high proportion of respondents who reported that ‘both themselves and others are cooperative’ represented an infinitely repeated game with the perception of others' habits as a credible threat. The linear probability model showed that the perception of others' habits did not significantly associate with socio-psychological factors when the perception of others' habits appears to be a credible threat to cooperation. However, in communities where the perception of others' habits does not appear to be a credible threat to cooperation, the perception of other users' behavior is significantly associated with socio-psychological factors. People in such communities choose cooperation because they are critically aware of the behavior of others. Focusing on the game structure may enable one to identify determinants supporting cooperation as equilibrium in managing common pool resources.
Therapeutic Synergistic Potential of Tribulus terrestris and Asparagus racemosus in Treating Hypogonadism in Orchiectomized Rats
Authors: Ghai Roma , Chauhan Karishma , Nagarajan Kandasamy , Ali Nazakat , Mani Kamaraj , Kapoor Garima , Pandey Ayushi , Verma Vaishnavi 
Published: December 2024

Background:
Testosterone, a major sex steroid hormone secreted in males, plays a
vital role in androgenic and anabolic activities. A dysfunctional hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal
low testicular Leydig cell function can account for the reduction in testosterone levels. This condition
is known as hypogonadism/androgen deficiency, a global health issue. Various studies
conducted in the past have revealed that the likelihood of developing the disease increases with
age. Reports suggest that an annual decline of 0.4-2% occurs, with a 6% incidence in middle-aged
men. Orchiectomy-induced hypogonadism causes androgen deficiency in males. Testosterone has
a shelf life of two days, so surgical procedure helps in the cessation of testosterone, leading to the
same symptoms and conditions as observed in hypogonadism. This study aimed to evaluate, for
the first time, the combined effects of Tribulus terrestris and Asparagus racemosus on their ability
to treat hypogonadism.

Methods:
In this study, healthy male Wistar rats were acclimatized for one week and subjected to
orchiectomy to induce hypogonadism. The animals were divided into five groups: normal control,
disease control, standard (Tentex forte 400 mg/kg), Tribulus terrestris (400 mg/kg), and a combination
of Tribulus terrestris (400 mg/kg) and Asparagus racemosus (600 mg/kg). Treatments were
administered daily for 14 days. Body weight and blood samples were collected on days 1, 7, and
14 for analysis. Serum biochemical parameters, including testosterone levels assessed by LC-MS,
were evaluated, along with histopathological examination of the prostate and seminal vesicles.
Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA, followed by Bonferroni post hoc test,
with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results:
The combination of Tribulus terrestris (TT) (400 mg/kg) and Asparagus racemosus
(AR) (600 mg/kg/day), when compared to alone Tribulus terrestris extract (400 mg/kg) resulted
in an improvement of testosterone levels compared to the standard drug, Tentex forte (400
mg/kg).

Conclusion:
Therefore, the combination of Tribulus terrestris and Asparagus racemosus can be a
promising treatment choice for the effective treatment of hypogonadism in the future.
Nature's Arsenal: Exploring the Anticancer Properties of Bioactive Compounds from Natural Sources
Authors: Thakur Tamanna , Saharan Renu , Beniwal Suresh Kumar , Dahiya Preeti , Verma Inderjeet , Dhankhar Sanchit , Chauhan Samrat , Yasmin Sabina , Singh Thakur Gurjeet 
Published: December 2024

Abstract:
Considering that cancer is a disease that affects people all over the world, there has
been a movement in the focus of scientific and research efforts towards substances that are acquired
from natural sources. This shift has occurred as a result of the fact that cancer is a disease
that affects people. It has been demonstrated that the identification of pharmaceuticals originating
from plants has proven to be particularly beneficial in the process of producing anticancer therapies
such as vincristine, vinblastine, paclitaxel, and irinotecan. Additionally, marine sources have
provided substances such as cytarabine and aplidine, and microbes have developed important anticancer
drugs such as dactinomycin, doxorubicin, and bleomycin with their anticancer qualities.
These medicines have been used to treat cancer. The purpose of this review is to highlight the fact
that active components derived from natural sources present significant opportunities for the discovery
of not only completely new categories of anticancer medicines but also novel precursor
chemicals and potentially relevant mechanisms of action about breast cancer treatment. The purpose
of this article is to review naturally isolated anticancer medications by drawing from a significant
number of case reports and a wide variety of scientific investigations and to review a
wide range of agents that can be derived from a wide range of natural resources, such as bacteria,
marine organisms, and plants.
The Beauty Revolution of Nanotechnology: Unveiling the Impact of Cosmetic Nano Wonders
Authors: Gupta Parul , Sharma Anjali , Mittal Vishnu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract:
The infusion of nanotechnology into cosmetic formulations marks a transformative shift
in beauty science. Although Raymond Reed originally used the word "cosmeceutical," Dr. Albert
Kligman popularised the idea in the late 1970s. Cosmetic Nano Wonders are redefining skincare by
leveraging nanomaterials to enhance the stability, delivery, and efficacy of active ingredients. The
paradigm shift holds promise for overcoming longstanding challenges in traditional cosmetic formulations.
This article aims to explore and showcase the revolutionary impact of nanotechnology on
the cosmetic industry. Focusing on key nanocarriers, such as liposomes and nanoparticles, our objective
is to illuminate how nanotechnology elevates the performance of beauty products, providing
advanced solutions for skincare concerns. This revolution promotes sustainability through green
synthesis techniques and enables more accurate and effective therapies for a variety of skin issues,
including acne and ageing that raises the bar for safety and innovation in the cosmetics business by
enhancing product performance and environmental impact. Conducting a thorough literature review,
we analyze recent scientific studies and industry reports to unveil the mechanisms and applications
of nanotechnology in cosmetics. Special attention is given to the role of nanocarriers in stability enhancement,
targeted delivery, and controlled release, unraveling the methods that drive the transformative
potential of Cosmetic Nano Wonders. The database sources are Scopus, PubMed, Google
Scholar, and Google Patents. The examination of recent research underscores the tangible benefits
of nanotechnology in cosmetics. Cosmetic Nano Wonders demonstrate superior stability, enhanced
penetration into skin layers, and controlled release mechanisms, showcasing their potential to revolutionize
beauty science and address longstanding challenges in skincare. Cosmetic Nano Wonders
represent a groundbreaking shift in beauty science, offering unprecedented possibilities for formulators
and consumers. As nanotechnology continues to reshape cosmetic formulations, the future holds
the promise of safer, more effective, and personalized skincare solutions, ushering in a new era in
beauty science.