bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pectoralis minor index range of healthy 18–24-year-old students from a Kenyan public university
Authors: Agweyu Eugene C. , Matheri Joseph M. , Olivier Benita , Korkie Elzette 
Published: February 2025

Background: The pectoralis minor muscle (PMM) length is critical for shoulder movement and stability, often implicated in dysfunction and pain. The pectoralis minor index (PMI) quantifies this muscle’s length relative to body dimensions. Typical PMI values range from 10.0 cm to 12.5 cm in healthy adults, with data for Kenyan populations.Objectives: This study aimed to establish baseline PMI values among healthy 18–24-year-old university students in Kenya, examining variations by side dominance and sex to support clinical assessments.Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study recruited 289 healthy young adults from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) using stratified and simple random sampling. Data were collected through a self-developed, interviewer-administered questionnaire, achieving a 93.4% response rate. PMI values were measured in three postures: supine, relaxed, and standing.Results: In the standing relaxed position, the PMI mean was 10.6 cm on the dominant side and 11.2 cm on the non-dominant side, with significant variation indicated by a 95% confidence interval. A paired t-test revealed a significant difference between dominant and non-dominant sides (p 0.0001).Conclusion: Baseline PMI values for Kenyan young adults show significant differences by dominance and sex. These findings provide a foundational reference for assessing PMI in clinical settings, supporting physiotherapists and clinicians in evaluating and treating shoulder dysfunction using precise muscle length data.Clinical implications: Establishing baseline PMI values assists physiotherapists in identifying deviations, enabling targeted interventions for shoulder dysfunction.
Die wese van onderrig
Authors: Nel Malan 
Published: February 2025

The essence of teaching. This article is a reflection on significant empirical qualitative research done within four Afrikaans-speaking denominations in South Africa. The research was prompted by a request from one such denomination experiencing a serious challenge in what is called ‘kategese’ in Afrikaans-speaking Reformed churches. The process of registering a research project within the Department of Practical Theology and Mission Studies was done accordingly and the necessary ethical clearance was obtained. After 123 qualitative interviews and the scientific analysis of the data, it was decided to theologically reflect on the nine most outstanding concepts deriving from the analysis. This article has a twofold purpose: it describes the empirical research process; and secondly, it reflects theologically on the essence of the didache as a ministry.Intradisciplinary and/ or Interdisciplinary implications: In the process, the multi-disciplinary nature of the didache is obvious. In the article planned to follow on this one, it is even more obvious, but in this article, the importance of the Biblical Sciences, Systematic Theology and Congregational Studies are easy to recognise.
Toerusting van ouers
Authors: Robinson Cobus B. 
Published: February 2025

Equipment of parents. The empirical research of this article highlights the pivotal role of parents in the faith development of children and adolescents who have recently completed catechesis and the traditional ‘confession of faith’ process. Data indicates that faith development primarily takes place within the family context, with parental involvement directly correlating with adolescents’ continued engagement in church following their confession. Observations reveal that children of devout parents tend to remain more actively involved in church life. However, a misconception exists among Christian parents regarding their role in spiritual formation, as they often mistakenly assume that this responsibility lies primarily with church professionals. Scriptural references affirm that the Lord has entrusted parents with the principal duty of discipling their children, positioning the family as a unique interpretative context through which God reveals himself within the ecclesiastical space. Psychological insights further support this, showing that minor’s mirror neurons, which facilitate learning, extend their influence to religious practices. Children internalise faith habits and behaviours by observing their parents and other significant adults, thereby reinforcing their spiritual connections. Consequently, mirror neurons are essential in the spiritual development of children. It is therefore primarily the responsibility of parents to exemplify their faith and instruct their children.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The article further offers guidance through both structured family worship and spontaneous conversations to contribute to effective discipling within the home.
Roetemerker begeleiding as deel van missionale gemeentes
Authors: Avenant Johannes C. 
Published: February 2025

Milestones guidance as part of missional congregations. This article highlights the importance of establishing and celebrating milestones in the challenges of integrating and retaining children and adolescents within the church. The research clearly showed that congregations often fall short in effectively guiding baptised children and adolescents to become integral members of their faith communities. Furthermore, it highlights that the strong emphasis on confirmation, with its strong knowledge focus, creates the impression that this milestone marks the endpoint of the faith formation journey rather than an element of ongoing discipleship within a missional church. This perspective therefore limits the development of a missional congregational identity. This article argues that a reappraisal of biblical teaching fundamentals and faith formation will not only enhance the integration of children and adolescents into the church, but also guide them towards active participation in the church’s missional ministry. Faith formation signifies initiation, guidance and discernment on a lifelong discipleship journey. Along this journey, establishing, guiding, and celebrating milestones serve as continues and focused faith formation through a process of orientation, identification, profession of faith, and confirmation. It is consistently highlighted that this formation of faith inevitably includes the discovery of and participation in the missional identity of the church.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This missional identity will ensure that the church provides not only a space for faith formation but also a lifelong journey of following Christ with the faith community and discovering ways to be a part of and participate in God’s mission in the world.
Geloofsvorming as saam-stappende verbondenheid
Authors: Mouton Dawid P. 
Published: February 2025

Faith formation as co-stepping covenantal accompaniment. Catechesis and other faith formation practices often focus solely on the transmission of theological and dogmatic knowledge. This approach, combined with other factors, frequently leads to adolescents disengaging from congregational activities after taking confession. Research shows that when meaningful relationships are integrated into these processes, adolescents are more likely to remain involved in their congregations even after confession. This article,1 drawing on data from a larger project on catechesis within Afrikaans-speaking congregations of the Dutch Reformed Church family, as well as a literature study, advocates for renewed emphasis on relationships during catechesis and other formation practices. The arguments presented here are centred on the concept of faith formation as a covenantal journey, and theological justifications for this are provided.Intradisciplinary/interdisciplinary implications: While not explored in depth, this article highlights the connection between faith formation and the role of other disciplines, such as education. It aligns with the journal’s focus by promoting further interdisciplinary dialogue.
Herbesoek en herontwikkeling van leermateriaal en kurrikulum vir geloofsvorming
Authors: Beukes Jacques W. 
Published: February 2025

Revisiting and redeveloping learning materials and curriculum for faith formation. Amidst the bustling activity of various congregations and denominations, the junior and senior catechism curriculum often proceeds without deliberate design. As a result, insufficient attention is given to the structure and potential shortcomings of programmes aimed at fostering faith formation among young individuals. This oversight can lead to young people disengaging from the church – a phenomenon often referred to as ‘dropout’ [uitval]. This issue presents a significant challenge and source of frustration for many denominations, particularly those within the Reformed family of churches. In the context of this study, ‘dropout’ describes the cessation of participation in congregational activities typically following the completion of the catechisation process. Empirical research conducted to explore this issue, underscores the crucial role of well-designed educational resources in supporting faith formation to address or gain a deeper understanding of young people and addressing premature church disengagement. Using questionnaires, pastors, catechists, and adolescents shared their perspectives, unanimously emphasising the importance of effective study materials in nurturing faith and shaping disciples.Intradisciplinary/interdisciplinary implications: This article seeks to highlight the significance of a carefully designed and developed educational resource or syllabus in promoting faith formation among young people.
Limited Awareness of Pitch Smart Guidelines among Youth Baseball Players
Authors: Lin Yu-Hsuan , Hsu Kai-Lan , Kuan Fa-Chuan , Su Wei-Ren , Hong Chih-Kai 
Published: February 2025

Background:
In spite of extensive research on pitch regulations, young baseball players continue to face a high risk of sports injuries. Adhering to and being aware of the current guidelines is crucial in preventing these injuries.

Objectives:
This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge of Pitch Smart guidelines from the perspective of youth baseball players.

Materials and Methods:
To conduct the study, a total of 66 youth baseball players between the ages of 9 and 14 were recruited. They were asked to complete an anonymous 13-question survey. The researchers calculated the percentage of correct answers for each question and used a Chi-squared test to compare the results between the two age groups.

Results:
The overall percentage of correct answers was found to be 36.9% in the 9–12-year-old group and 46.6% in the 13–14-year-old group (P = 0.004). Both groups showed low awareness regarding pitch-inning restrictions, pitch-type recommendations, the required length of rest between pitching sessions, and the number of consecutive days they should pitch. Only 10.3% of the younger group believed it was necessary to monitor signs of fatigue themselves.

Conclusions:
These findings indicate a poor understanding of the Pitch Smart guidelines and associated pitch regulations among young baseball players. It is clear that there is a need for proper education on the current recommendations to prevent injuries effectively.
Percutaneous Knowles Pinning for Type V Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation: An Alternative to Hook Plating
Authors: Shih Yu-Jen , Chang Hui-Chin , Wu Chih-Lung 
Published: February 2025

Background:
Although various surgical techniques have been proposed in the literature for unstable acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation, there is no consensus on the best treatment for unstable ACJ dislocation. Forty-four percent of surgeons prefer to use hook plate insertion for ACJ injuries due to an easy and effective technique and good clinical outcomes. However, its potential complications, such as shoulder stiffness, shoulder impingement, and acromial erosion, have been the subject of constant concern.

Objectives:
The purpose of our study is to compare the results of open reduction with hook plate fixation versus closed reduction with percutaneous Knowles pin fixation for the treatment of type V ACJ dislocation to demonstrate that percutaneous Knowles pinning is an alternative to hook plating.

Materials and Methods:
A single-institution retrospective study was conducted to analyze 87 patients with acute type V ACJ dislocation who had received hook plate fixation (H group) or percutaneous Knowles pin fixation (K group) from February 2013 to October 2020. The clinical results, radiological evaluation, and postoperative complications of the patients after surgery were collected by reviewing medical and operative records and radiographs.

Results:
The K group (33 patients) had equally satisfactory effects on the Constant-Murley shoulder score compared to the H group (54 patients). In the two groups, the K group had significantly shorter in wound length, operation time, and duration of hospitalization. Furthermore, the postoperative complication rate was significantly lower in the K group.

Conclusions:
Percutaneous Knowles pinning presents a cost-effective surgical method for acute type V ACJ dislocation compared to hook plating. We believe it is an available therapy option that can reduce patient suffering and minimize medical costs, serving as an alternative to hook plating.
Fasd (Venesection) in Traditional Unani Medicine
Authors: Alam Shah , Anjum Nighat , Akhtar Jamal , Bashir Fouzia , Ahmad Irfan , Salahuddin  
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Unani medicine also referred to as Greco-Arab medicine is a traditional system of medicine which originated in ancient Greece. According to Unani medicine, there are six essential factors which are responsible for the maintenance of health and any disruption in them may lead to disease. Ilāj bit Tadbīr (regimental therapy) encompasses regimes that attempt to correct this disruption and help the body to restore itself. Faṣd (venesection) is a part of Ilāj bit Tadbīr which involves blood-letting by placing an incision in specified veins. It is prescribed as a minor excretory procedure which has both preventive and therapeutic benefits. Faṣd has manifold benefits including istifrāgh (excretion) of wastes, removal of imtila (plethora), and reduction of viscosity of blood. Hence, if carried out according to the guidelines, it serves as an effective treatment modality for many local and systemic disorders. The historical background of Faṣd, timing, duration, its types and importance, recent scientific reports, and the disorders in which it can be used will be discussed in this paper.
Beyond the Broken Heart: Unusual Triggers of Stress Cardiomyopathy – A Narrative Review
Authors: Cacciapuoti Fulvio , Capone Valentina , Crispo Salvatore , Gottilla Rossella , Rocca Fulvio La , Esposito Mafalda , Mauro Ciro 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Stress cardiomyopathy, also known as apical ballooning syndrome or takotsubo cardiomyopathy, is traditionally associated with acute emotional or physical stress. However, recent evidence reveals a range of unusual triggers that can lead to this transient form of heart failure including medical and surgical procedures, neurological events (i.e., seizures and strokes), chronic psychological stress, and endocrine disorders such as hypoglycemia, pharmacological agents, infectious diseases (i.e., sepsis and COVID-19), and environmental stressors such as extreme temperatures or high altitudes. Despite the variety of these triggers, they share a common pathophysiology, primarily involving an excessive catecholamine surge that results in myocardial stunning. Recognizing these unusual causes and presentations is essential for timely diagnosis and appropriate management.
Subgingivally Delivered Spirulina Gel and Chlorhexidine Gel in Periodontitis Patients – A Comparative Study
Authors: Dolly A. Sheryl , Shankar P. L. Ravi , Saravanan A. V. , Pandian K Raja , Sindhujaa R , Rashik K. M. Mohamed 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background:
Periodontal diseases necessitate adjunctive therapies alongside mechanical debridement. Spirulina platensis, recognized for its antimicrobial properties and minimal side effects, offers promise in periodontal treatment.

Aims:
This study compares the efficacy of subgingivally delivered spirulina gel with chlorhexidine (CHX) gel both clinically and microbiologically in stage III periodontitis patients.

Methods and Materials:
A randomized, controlled, single-blinded, split-mouth study was conducted with 23 subjects meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria. The participants were randomly assigned to two treatment groups: Group I (control) received scaling and root planing (SRP) followed by 1% CHX gel, and Group II (test) received SRP followed by 4% spirulina gel. Clinical parameters such as Gingival Index (GI), Modified Sulcular Bleeding Index (mSBI), and probing depth were assessed at baseline, 3rd week, and 6th week. Microbial load assessment for Porphyromonas gingivalis (P.g) was conducted using real-time qPCR at baseline and 6th week.

Statistical Analysis Used:
Paired t-tests, repeated measures analyses of variance using SPSS software.

Results:
Both groups exhibited significant improvements in clinical parameters and reduced P.g load, with no significant difference between the spirulina and CHX groups.

Conclusion:
The findings suggest that 4% spirulina gel, when delivered subgingivally can be considered a viable adjunct to non-surgical periodontal therapy, offering a natural and potentially cost-effective alternative to traditional antimicrobial agents.
Clinical Presentation and Co-Morbidities in Bardet-Biedel Syndrome: Case Series from a Single Centre
Authors: Sridhar Subbiah , Palanivel Sengottaiyan , Senthilkumar Jayachandran , Kavitha Kanagasabapathy , Geethaanjali Varadarajan , Vasanthiy Natarajan , Dharmaraj Chelliah 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Introduction:
Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS-OMIM 209900) is a rare genetic multi-system obesity syndrome with limited case reports from India. We describe a case series of BBS with varied clinical presentation and their co-morbidities.

Methods:
BBS was diagnosed based on the clinical criteria by Beales et al. Their clinical presentations including the presence of primary and secondary features, metabolic profile, and systemic complications were examined.

Results:
Eleven cases of BBS were analyzed over 9 years, of which the most common primary clinical manifestations were post-axial polydactyly and learning disabilities, noted in all individuals (100%). Retinitis pigmentosa and truncal obesity were present in 91% (10 out of 11). Clinical and biochemical features of hypogonadism and genital abnormalities were observed in 73% of individuals. Craniofacial dysmorphism and developmental delay were the more commonly observed secondary features, observed in 91%. Speech delay and brachydactyly/syndactyly were present in 73% of cases. Hyperactive behavioural disturbances and diabetes mellitus were noted in 45% and 18% of cases, respectively. Cataracts, hypertonia, dental malocclusion and cardiac anomalies (dextrocardia) were each observed in just one patient among the study population of 11 patients. The molecular genetics were analysed in two individuals.

Conclusion:
BBS is an extremely rare clinical syndrome with clinical heterogeneity at presentation. The appropriate diagnosis of syndromic obesity and an early multi-disciplinary intervention may improve their quality of life.
A Cross-Sectional Study on Comparison of Serum Cortisol Concentration Measured by Chemiluminescent Immunoassay in Four Different Automated Analyzers in a Variety of Adrenal Disorders
Authors: Agrawal Neeti , Sinha Anirban , Chakraborty Partha P. , Bhattacharjee Rana , Awasthi Avivar , Maiti Animesh 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Introduction:
Cortisol concentration is often estimated by competitive chemiluminescent immunoassays, which are prone to interference due to cross-reactivity. The extent of interference is inconsistent across different adrenal disorders and among different analyzers. Although liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) possesses better analytical specificity, it is not widely available. We aimed to compare cortisol values measured across four different analyzers across different adrenal disorders.

Methods:
Cortisol concentrations were measured in the serum of patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) (n = 12), primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) (n = 11), endogenous Cushing’s syndrome (CS) (n = 6), adrenal incidentaloma (AI) (n = 8), and healthy subjects (HS) (n = 10) in the following analyzers: Advia Centaur XP (Siemens) (SACXP), Immulite1000 (Siemens) (SI1000), Cobas e411 (Roche) (RCe411), and Architect (Abbott)(AA).

Results:
In CAH patients, a poor agreement was observed between SAC XP [median (IQR) 14.6 (4.7) μg/dL] and RC e411 [median (IQR) 4.6 (3.9) μg/dL] [ICC: −0.016, (−0.55, 0.55)]. The correlation was also poor between SAC XP and SI 1000 [ICC: 0.00, (0.558, 0.551)] as well as between SAC XP and AA [ICC: 0.089, (−0.488, 0.612)]. The agreement was good between RCe411, SI 1000 [median (IQR) 9.6 (3) μg/dL], and AA [median (IQR) 5.1 (3.4) μg/dL] platforms in the same group. Measured cortisol values correlated well across all analyzers in PAI, CS, AI, and HS.

Conclusions:
Cortisol concentration demonstrated variable agreement among different analyzers in different adrenal disorders. In CAH, cortisol values measured by SAC XP poorly correlate with RC e411, SI 1000, and AA platforms. Reassessment in another analyzer therefore would be prudent to avoid devastating consequences of unrecognized hypocortisolism in this subset of patients. A good concordance was observed among platforms in other conditions.
Comparing the effectiveness of occupational stress training package with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy on job burnout of Tam Kar’s employees in order to health promotion
Authors: Gorji Somayeh 
Published: February 2025

AIM:
The purpose of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of an occupational stress training package with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) on job burnout of Tam Kar employees.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:
The research method was a three-stage, three-group semiexperimental design. To this end, the statistical population including all the employees who worked in the technical departments of Tam Kar Company in Isfahan and in terms of the level of stress in middle and higher levels, using purposive sampling, 60 employees were selected and randomly divided into three groups (20 for each group). Geldard (1989) burnout inventory (GBI) was used for data collection. Experimental group 1 received eight 90-min sessions of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy training, and experimental group 2 received job stress coping training in ten 90-min sessions. Repeated measurement ANOVA was used to analyze the data with the help of a statistical software package in social sciences (SPSS) version 22.

RESULTS:
The results showed that coping with job stress training and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy were equally effective in reducing the employees’ burnout (P ≤ 0.05) and this effect continued at follow-up.

CONCLUSION:
Given the high prevalence of burnout and psychopathologic symptoms among industry staff, coping with job stress training and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy training can be suggested to reduce burnout syndrome in the industry.