bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Indigenous-informed scoping review study methodology: advancing the science of scoping reviews
Authors: Phillips-Beck Wanda , Bukich Bryden L. J. , Thiessen Kellie , Lavoie Josée G. , Schultz Annette , Sanguins Julianne , Beck Geraldine , Longclaws Brenda , Shingoose Geraldine , Palmer Matta , Linton Janice , Negash Bekelu , Morriseau Taylor
Published: July 2024

Background

Historically, Indigenous voices have been silent in health research, reflective of colonial academic institutions that privilege Western ways of knowing. However, Indigenous methodologies and methods with an emphasis on the active involvement of Indigenous peoples and centering Indigenous voices are gaining traction in health education and research. In this paper, we map each phase of our scoping review process and weave Indigenous research methodologies into Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) framework for conducting scoping reviews.

Methods

Guided by an advisory circle consisting of Indigenous Knowledge Keepers and allied scholars, we utilized both Indigenous and Western methods to conduct a scoping review. As such, a circle of Knowledge Keepers provided guidance and informed our work, while our methods of searching and scoping the literature remained consistent with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. In keeping with an Indigenous methodology, the scoping review protocol was not registered allowing for an organic development of the research process.

Results

We built upon Arksey and O’Malley’s 5-stages and added an additional 3 steps for a combined 8-stage model to guide our research: (1) Exploration and Listening, (2) Doing the Groundwork, (3) Identifying and Refining the Research Question, (4) Identifying Relevant Studies, (5) Study Selection, (6) Mapping Data, (7) Collating, Summarizing and Synthesizing the Data, and lastly, (8) Sharing and Making Meaning. Engagement and listening, corresponding to Arksey and O’Malley (2005)’s optional “consultation stage,” was embedded throughout, but with greater intensity in stages 1 and 8.

Conclusion

An Indigenous approach to conducting a scoping review includes forming a team with a wide array of experience in both Indigenous and Western methodologies, meaningful Indigenous representation, and inclusion of Indigenous perspectives to shape the analysis and presentation of findings. Engaging Indigenous peoples throughout the entire research process, listening, and including Indigenous voices and perspectives is vital in reconciliation research, producing both credible and useable information for both Indigenous communities and academia. Our Indigenous methodology for conducting a scoping review can serve as a valuable framework for summarizing Indigenous health-related research.
HIV1 drug resistance among patients experiencing first-line treatment failure in Ethiopia: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Balew Melashu , Abeje Gedefaw , Mekonnen Alemtsehay , Degu Getu
Published: July 2024

Background

The emergence of HIV drug resistance presents a substantial challenge. Current antiretroviral treatments, along with current classes, face the danger of becoming partially or entirely inactive. As a result, alternative treatment regimens are limited, and treatment choices are complicated. According to the recommendation of the WHO, nations should consider changing their first-line ART regimen if HIV drug resistance exceeds 10%. In spite of the fact that a number of primary studies have been performed on HIV drug resistance in Ethiopia, their pooled prevalence rate has not been determined in a systematic review and meta-analysis, which may provide stronger evidence. Therefore, the objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis will be to estimate the pooled prevalence rate of HIV1 drug resistance in patients with first-line treatment failure in Ethiopia.

Methods

Primary studies will be identified from PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science Core Collection, and Google Scholar. The period of search will be from 01 April to 30 June 2024. Studies identified through the search strategies will first be screened by titles and abstracts. Included studies meeting established criteria will be evaluated for risk of bias using the JBI checklist. Data will be extracted, and the pooled prevalence rate of HIV drug resistance will be computed using STATA 14 software. Random effect models will be used when heterogeneity is suspected. The I2 statistic and its corresponding P value will be checked to distinguish heterogeneity. Additionally, publication bias and heterogeneity will be checked using visual funnel plots, Egger’s test, trim-and-fill tests, meta-regression, and subgroup analysis. To present and synthesize the results, narrative synthesis will be performed to describe study characteristics and findings, and forest plots will be used to visually represent effect sizes and confidence intervals from individual studies.

Discussion

Estimating the pooled prevalence rate of HIV drug resistance through a systematic review and meta-analysis improves the reliability of the evidence, the availability of effective HIV treatment options, and the ability to assist in making decisions for both clinical practice and public health policy in Ethiopia.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42024533975.
Seismic Behavior of Steel Reinforced Ultra-High Strength Concrete Composite Frame: Experimental and Numerical Study
Authors: Zhang Jian-cheng , Jiang Xue-guo , Jia Zi-kang , Cao Mao-sen , Jia Jin-qing
Published: July 2024

The seismic behavior of steel reinforced ultra-high strength concrete (SRUHSC) composite frame was investigated through finite element analysis (FEA) modeling. A FEA model for the seismic analysis of the SRUHSC frame was first established and verified with test results. The numerical model was subsequently used to study the seismic performance of the SRUHSC frame, including the P-Δ skeleton curves, the stiffness degradation, the failure mode, the subsequence mechanisms of plastic hinges and the stress–strain distribution. Finally, a parametric study was carried out to investigate the effect of salient parameters on the behavior of the SRUHSC frame. It was found that with the increment of the concrete strength, yield strength of steel, and linear stiffness ratio of beam to column, the horizontal load-bearing capacity and the elastic stiffness of the structure were improved, but there was no significant effect on the ductility. With the increment of the volume stirrup ratio and structural steel ratio, the horizontal load-bearing capacity and the ductility of the structure were both improved. However, with the increment of the axial-load ratio, there was no obvious change in the elastic stiffness of the structure, but the horizontal load bearing capacity and the ductility of the structure decreased obviously. In addition, the accuracy of a concrete constitutive model in the different degrees of constraint for the SRUHSC frame proposed by the authors was verified with the FEA model.
Development and validation of a mental hyperactivity questionnaire for the evaluation of chronic stress in higher education
Authors: Fernández-García Rubén , Melguizo-Ibáñez Eduardo , Zurita-Ortega Félix , Ubago-Jiménez José Luis
Published: July 2024

Background

Examination and understanding of neural hyperactivity are some of the greatest scientific challenges faced in the present day. For this reason, the present study aimed to examine this phenomenon in the context of higher education.

Method

Likewise, this work will enable an instrument to be created to appropriately and reliably estimate neural hyperactivity associated with chronic stress in university students undertaking a Physiotherapy degree.

Results

Analysis of content validity was carried out according to agreement and consensus between nineteen experts with Education Science or Psychology degrees, via the Delphi method. On the other hand, face validity was established by administering the questionnaire to a sample of 194 university students aged between 18 and 45 years (M = 30.48%; SD = 13.152).

Conclusion

The final self-report measure, denominated mental hyperactivity, was composed of 10 items which showed adequate fit with regards to face and content validity (α = 0.775). Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed that the questionnaire was unidimensional.
Unveiling the distinctive mechanical and thermal properties of γ-GeSe
Authors: Park Jinsub , Je Yugyeong , Kim Joonho , Park Je Myoung , Jung Joong-Eon , Cheong Hyeonsik , Lee Sang Wook , Kim Kwanpyo
Published: July 2024

γ-GeSe is a newly identified polymorph among group-IV monochalcogenides, characterized by a distinctive interatomic bonding configuration. Despite its promising applications in electrical and thermal domains, the experimental verification of its mechanical and thermal properties remains unreported. Here, we experimentally characterize the in-plane Young’s modulus (E) and thermal conductivity ($$\:\kappa\:$$) of γ-GeSe. The mechanical vibrational modes of freestanding γ-GeSe flakes are measured using optical interferometry. Nano-indentation via atomic force microscopy is also conducted to induce mechanical deformation and to extract the E. Comparison with finite-element simulations reveals that the E is 97.3$$\:\pm\:$$7.5 GPa as determined by optical interferometry and 109.4$$\:\pm\:$$13.5 GPa as established through the nano-indentation method. Additionally, optothermal Raman spectroscopy reveals that γ-GeSe has a lattice thermal conductivity of 2.3 $$\:\pm\:$$ 0.4 Wm−1K−1 and a total thermal conductivity of 7.5 $$\:\pm\:$$ 0.4 Wm−1K−1 in the in-plane direction at room temperature. The notably high $$\:E/\kappa\:$$ ratio in γ-GeSe, compared to other layered materials, underscores its distinctive structural and dynamic characteristics.
Validity and reliability of the Greek Migraine-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MSQ Version 2.1-GR)
Authors: Giannouli Ermioni , Giannouli Eleni , Alexoudi Athanasia , Arvaniti Chryssa , Fakas Nikolaos , Constantinidis Theodoros S. , Kouremenos Evangelos , Mitsikostas Dimos-Dimitrios ,   on behalf of Hellenic Headache Society
Published: July 2024

Background

To assess the validity and reliability of the Migraine-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire 2.1 (MSQv.2.1) in a group of Greek migraineurs.

Design—sample—methods

The Greek version of MSQv.2.1 (MSQv.2.1-GR), a self-report measure with 14 items in 3 domains (Role Restrictive (RR), Role Preventive (RP) and Emotional Function (EF)), was administered during a cross-sectional study to 141 Greek adult migraineurs and 135 controls without migraine or any other primary headache disorder, along with Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS) and Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) to assess validity. MSQv.2.1-GR was re-administered in a group of participants with migraine two weeks afterwards to assess reliability. Content and construct validity was assessed using Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), Spearman rho, McDonald’s omega, Cronbach’s alpha. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to test the latent structure of the MSQv.2.1-GR in migraineurs.

Results

A total of 276 adults participated in the study. Internal consistency of the three MSQv.2.1-GR scales RR, RP and EF yielded a range of McDonald’s omega from 0.832 to 0.923 (Cronbach’s alpha from 0.814 to 0.923). CFA confirmed the proposed three-factor MSQv.2.1-GR latent structure with acceptable goodness of fit indices and factor loadings. Correlations were established between MSQv2.1-GR component and MIDAS scores, showing moderate and statistically significant relationships (from − 0.519 to −0.562, all p < 0.001) for RR, RP and EF. Correlations between MSQv2.1-GR and SF-12 component scores were identified, with values from 0.1 to 0.4, indicating low to moderate associations. ICC was calculated at 0.997, indicating a high level of reliability between the measures. Notably, all MSQv2.1-GR scores (RR, RP, EF) were significantly higher in the controls compared to migraineurs (p < 0.001 for all scales). These findings suggest that MSQv2.1-GR is internally consistent, shows significant correlations with relevant measures, and is effective in discriminating controls from migraineurs.

Conclusion

MSQv2.1-GR is a valid and reliable tool to determine the effect migraine has on the quality of life of Greek-speaking migraineurs.
A semantic-based model with a hybrid feature engineering process for accurate spam detection
Authors: Mohammed Chira N. , Ahmed Ayah M.
Published: July 2024

Detecting spam emails is essential to maintaining the security and integrity of email communication. Existing research has made significant progress in developing effective spam detection models, but challenges remain in improving classification performance and adaptability to evolving spamming techniques. In this study, we propose a novel spam detection model with a comprehensive feature engineering approach that combines term frequency-inverse document frequency (TF-IDF) vectorizer and word embedding features to optimize the feature space. Our contribution lies in integrating semantic-based word embeddings, leveraging pre-existing knowledge to capture the semantic meaning of words and enhance the representation of email texts. To identify the most suitable word embedding technique for our model, we evaluated GloVe, Word2Vec, and FastText. GloVe was selected for its better performance, which is the result of its pre-training on a large and diverse text corpus. Furthermore, the model was evaluated without word embeddings, which did not exhibit the same effectiveness level as our word embedding-based model. Additionally, we utilized the support vector machine as a classifier and hyperparameter tuning technique to identify our model’s most effective parameter values. The proposed model was tested on two datasets. The experimental results showed that our model outperformed the other models discussed in the literature, achieving an accuracy of 99.5% on the SpamAssassin dataset, and 99.28% on the Enron-Spam dataset.
Pregnant mother’s intention to use mobile phone-based messaging interventions for improving maternal and newborn health practices in Jimma Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Abdissa Hordofa Gutema , Duguma Gebeyehu Bulcha , Ababulgu Fira Abamecha , Lemu Yohannes Kebede , Gerbaba Mulusew , Noll Josef , Sori Demisew Amenu , Koricha Zewdie Birhanu
Published: July 2024

Background

Mobile phone-based messaging for maternal education has shown promising outcomes in promoting maternal and child healthcare in low- and middle-income countries, where there is poor utilization of healthcare services. However, the success of a mobile phone messaging-based intervention depends on identifying and addressing the underlying factors that determine its utilization before implementation.

Objective

To assess pregnant mothers’ intention to use a mobile phone-based messaging intervention to improve maternal and newborn health in Jimma Zone, Ethiopia.

Method

This study employed a cross-sectional study design among randomly selected pregnant mothers residing in six primary health care units that were selected from three districts of Jimma Zone, Ethiopia. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, mean, and standard deviation were calculated and presented using tables. Multivariable linear regression analysis was used to identify predictors of intention. Standardized regression coefficients were used to understand the effect of the independent variables and outcome variable. A 95% confidence interval and a p-value of < 0.05 were considered significant.

Result

Two hundred seventy-nine pregnant mothers participated in this study, resulting in a 98.9% response rate. Almost all (98.9%) respondents preferred the Afan Oromo language, 41.9% of respondents preferred the afternoon and 48.4% preferred receiving health information as text messages once daily. Having family members who can share SMS information (β = 0.098, 95% CI: (0.279—1.867), perceived usefulness (β = 0.283, 95% CI: (0.143—0.341), perceived easiness (β = 0.209, 95% CI: (0.054—0.392), perceived acceptability (β = 0.158, 95% CI: (0.007—0.178) and perceived feasibility (β = 0.186, 95% CI: (0.057—0.284) were found to have a positive significant association with the intention to use mobile phone-based messaging for maternal and newborn health.

Conclusion

The majority of respondents preferred receiving mobile phone-based messaging on MNH in the Afan Oromo language, during the afternoon, and once daily. Having family members who share text message information, perceived usefulness, perceived easiness, perceived acceptability, and feasibility were significantly associated with intention. These findings highlight the importance of considering user preferences and determinants of intention when designing mobile phone-based messaging.
Genetic diversity and natural selection analysis of VAR2CSA and vir genes: implication for vaccine development
Authors: Hawadak Joseph , Arya Aditi , Chaudhry Shewta , Singh Vineeta
Published: July 2024

Variable surface antigens (VSAs) encoded by var and vir genes in Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, respectively, are known to be involved in malaria pathogenesis and host immune escape through antigenic variations. Knowledge of the genetic diversity of these antigens is essential for malaria control and effective vaccine development. In this study, we analysed the genetic diversity and evolutionary patterns of two fragments (DBL2X and DBL3X) of VAR2CSA gene and four vir genes (vir 4, vir 12, vir 21 and vir 27) from different endemic regions, including Southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. High levels of segregating sites (S) and haplotype diversity (Hd) were observed in both var and vir genes. Among vir genes, vir 12 (S = 131, Hd = 0.996) and vir 21 (S = 171, Hd = 892) were found to be more diverse as compared to vir 4 (S = 11, Hd = 0.748) and vir 27 (S = 23, Hd = 0.814). DBL2X (S = 99, Hd = 0.996) and DBL3X (S = 307, Hd = 0.999) fragments showed higher genetic diversity. Our analysis indicates that var and vir genes are highly diverse and follow the similar evolutionary pattern globally. Some codons showed signatures of positive or negative selection pressure, but vir and var genes are likely to be under balancing selection. This study highlights the high variability of var and vir genes and underlines the need of functional experimental studies to determine the most relevant allelic forms for effective progress towards vaccine formulation and testing.
External Validation and Update of the Risk Prediction Model for Denosumab-Induced Hypocalcemia Developed From a Hospital-Based Administrative Database
Authors: Ikegami Keisuke , Imai Shungo , Yasumuro Osamu , Tsuchiya Masami , Henmi Naomi , Suzuki Mariko , Hayashi Katsuhisa , Miura Chisato , Abe Haruna , Kizaki Hayato , Funakoshi Ryohkan , Sato Yasunori , Hori Satoko
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Denosumab is used to treat patients with bone metastasis from solid tumors, but sometimes causes severe hypocalcemia, so careful clinical management is important. This study aims to externally validate our previously developed risk prediction model for denosumab-induced hypocalcemia by using data from two facilities with different characteristics in Japan and to develop an updated model with improved performance and generalizability.

METHODS

In the external validation, retrospective data of Kameda General Hospital (KGH) and Miyagi Cancer Center (MCC) between June 2013 and June 2022 were used and receiver operating characteristic (ROC)-AUC was mainly evaluated. A scoring-based updated model was developed using the same data set from a hospital-based administrative database as previously employed. Selection of variables related to prediction of hypocalcemia was based on the results of external validation.

RESULTS

For the external validation, data from 235 KGH patients and 224 MCC patients were collected. ROC-AUC values in the original model were 0.879 and 0.774, respectively. The updated model consisting of clinical laboratory tests (calcium, albumin, and alkaline phosphatase) afforded similar ROC-AUC values in the two facilities (KGH, 0.837; MCC, 0.856).

CONCLUSION

We developed an updated risk prediction model for denosumab-induced hypocalcemia with small interfacility differences. Our results indicate the importance of using data from plural facilities with different characteristics in the external validation of generalized prediction models and may be generally relevant to the clinical application of risk prediction models. Our findings are expected to contribute to improved management of bone metastasis treatment.
Addressing Ageism With Geriatric Assessment in Clinical Practice and Research
Authors: Loh Kah Poh , Soto-Perez-de-Celis Enrique
Published: July 2024

Addressing ageism in clinical practice & research: #awareness #education #language and #geriassessment
Ultrasonic Preparation of Nano-CaCO3 Templates and Hollow Mesoporous SiO2 Nanoparticles for Voriconazole Loading
Authors: Liu Xiaolin , Wu Zhilin , Cavalli Roberta , Manzoli Maela , Cravotto Giancarlo
Published: July 2024

CaCO3 nanoparticles (nano-CaCO3) as nano-templates were prepared using CaCl2 and Na2CO3 solutions under controlled sonication (19.5 kHz). Using the same ultrasonic device, subsequently, hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles (HMSNs) were obtained by the hard template of nano-CaCO3. HMSNs were selected as carriers for the antifungal drug voriconazole (VOR) loading to overcome poor water solubility. Three-dimensional CaCO3 nanosheets HMSNs were obtained under gentle sonication. Three-dimensional CaCO3 nanosheets of 24.5 nm (hydrodynamic diameter) were obtained under 17.6 W for 3 min. HMSNs were synthesized by double-template method with nano-CaCO3 as the hard template. Transmission electron microscopy measurements showed that the prepared HMSNs possess hollow structures with particle size between 110 and 120 nm. Nitrogen physisorption at -196 °C revealed that the HMSNs had high surface area (401.57 m2/g), high pore volume (0.11 cm3/g), and uniform pore size (2.22 nm) that facilitated the effective encapsulation of VOR in the HMSNs. The loading capacity of VOR (wt%) on the HMSNs was 7.96%, and the total VOR release amount of VOR-HMSNs material was 71.40% at 480 min. The kinetic model confirmed that the release mechanism of HMSNs nanoparticles followed Fickian diffusion at pH = 7.4 and 37 °C. Moreover, the cumulative VOR release at 42 °C (86.05%) was higher than that at 37 °C (71.40%). The cumulative release amount of VOR from the VOR-HMSNs material was 92.37% at pH = 5.8 at the same temperature. Both nano-CaCO3 templates and HMSNs were prepared by sonication at 19.5 kHz. The as-prepared HMSNs can effectively encapsulate VOR and released drug by Fickian diffusion.

Graphical Abstract
“Alexa, Cycle The Blood Pressure”: A Voice Control Interface Method for Anesthesia Monitoring
Authors: Lee Grace , Connor Christopher W.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Anesthesia monitors and devices are usually controlled with some combination of dials, keypads, a keyboard, or a touch screen. Thus, anesthesiologists can operate their monitors only when they are physically close to them, and not otherwise task-loaded with sterile procedures such as line or block placement. Voice recognition technology has become commonplace and may offer advantages in anesthesia practice such as reducing surface contamination rates and allowing anesthesiologists to effect changes in monitoring and therapy when they would otherwise presently be unable to do so. We hypothesized that this technology is practicable and that anesthesiologists would consider it useful.

METHODS:

A novel voice-driven prototype controller was designed for the GE Solar 8000M anesthesia patient monitor. The apparatus was implemented using a Raspberry Pi 4 single-board computer, an external conference audio device, a Google Cloud Speech-to-Text platform, and a modified Solar controller to effect commands. Fifty anesthesia providers tested the prototype. Evaluations and surveys were completed in a nonclinical environment to avoid any ethical or safety concerns regarding the use of the device in direct patient care. All anesthesiologists sampled were fluent English speakers; many with inflections from their first language or national origin, reflecting diversity in the population of practicing anesthesiologists.

RESULTS:

The prototype was uniformly well-received by anesthesiologists. Ease-of-use, usefulness, and effectiveness were assessed on a Likert scale with means of 9.96, 7.22, and 8.48 of 10, respectively. No population cofactors were associated with these results. Advancing level of training (eg, nonattending versus attending) was not correlated with any preference. Accent of country or region was not correlated with any preference. Vocal pitch register did not correlate with any preference. Statistical analyses were performed with analysis of variance and the unpaired t-test.

CONCLUSIONS:

The use of voice recognition to control operating room monitors was well-received anesthesia providers. Additional commands are easily implemented on the prototype controller. No adverse relationship was found between acceptability and level of anesthesia experience, pitch of voice, or presence of accent. Voice recognition is a promising method of controlling anesthesia monitors and devices that could potentially increase usability and situational awareness in circumstances where the anesthesiologist is otherwise out-of-position or task-loaded.
Kinetic dissection of pre-crRNA binding and processing by CRISPR–Cas12a
Authors: Sinan Selma , Appleby Nathan M. , Chou Chia-Wei , Finkelstein Ilya J. , Russell Rick
Published: July 2024

CRISPR–Cas12a binds and processes a single pre-crRNA during maturation, providing a simple tool for genome editing applications. Here, we constructed a kinetic and thermodynamic framework for pre-crRNA processing by Cas12a in vitro, and we measured the contributions of distinct regions of the pre-crRNA to this reaction. We find that the pre-crRNA binds rapidly and extraordinarily tightly to Cas12a (Kd= 0.6 pM), such that pre-crRNA binding is fully rate limiting for processing and therefore determines the specificity of Cas12a for different pre-crRNAs. The guide sequence contributes 10-fold to the binding affinity of the pre-crRNA, while deletion of an upstream sequence has no significant effect. After processing, the mature crRNA remains very tightly bound to Cas12a with a comparable affinity. Strikingly, the affinity contribution of the guide region increases to 600-fold after processing, suggesting that additional contacts are formed and may preorder the crRNA for efficient DNA target recognition. Using a direct competition assay, we find that pre-crRNA-binding specificity is robust to changes in the guide sequence, addition of a 3′ extension, and secondary structure within the guide region. However, stable secondary structure in the guide region can strongly inhibit DNA targeting, indicating that care should be taken in crRNA design. Together, our results provide a quantitative framework for pre-crRNA binding and processing by Cas12a and suggest strategies for optimizing crRNA design in genome editing applications.
Ανάπτυξη ψηφιακού εργαλείου παρέμβασης (serious game), για τη βελτίωση της προσοχής και της μνήμης παιδιών του Δημοτικού με ΔΕΠΥ
Authors: Παπαναστασίου Γεώργιος
Published: July 2024

Τα παιχνίδια σοβαρού σκοπού (serious games) έχει μελετηθεί ότι προσφέρουν πλεονεκτήματα στους μαθητές με αναπτυξιακές δυσκολίες στη μνήμη και την προσοχή στα γνωστικά αντικείμενα του αναλυτικού προγράμματος στην πρωτοβάθμια και δευτεροβάθμια εκπαίδευση σε σχέση με την παραδοσιακή διδασκαλία. Έχει παρατηρηθεί ότι είχαν αυξημένο μαθησιακό κίνητρο και οι επιδόσεις τους ήταν σημαντικά υψηλότερες και έφθαναν στο μέγιστο των δυνατοτήτων τους σε σχέση με την ομάδα ελέγχου (κεφάλαιο 1). Η διατριβή έχει στόχο να παρουσιάσει αρχικά την επίδραση των serious games σε ένα ευρύ φάσμα αναπτυξιακών δυσκολιών και διαταραχών που επηρεάζουν τη μνήμη και την προσοχή. Θα παρουσιάσουμε την επίδραση των serious games στα επιμέρους μαθησιακά αντικείμενα του αναλυτικού προγράμματος από την προσχολική έως και την τριτοβάθμια εκπαίδευση. Θα παρουσιάσουμε την χρήση των serious games ως μέρος της διεπαφής εγκεφάλου και υπολογιστή για την ανάπτυξη μιας σειράς δεξιοτήτων σχετικών με την κινητικότητα, την επικοινωνία, τη δημιουργικότητα και το συναίσθημα. Θα αναδείξουμε την αξία των serious games στην αποκατάσταση διαφόρων αναπηριών με την ασθενοκεντρική προσέγγιση καθώς και μέσω της χρήσης VR/AR (κεφάλαιο 2). Στη συνέχεια θα αναφέρουμε έννοιες και ιδιαίτερα θέματα της Διαταραχής Ελλειμματικής προσοχής με ή χωρίς Υπερκινητικότητα τα οποία αποτελούν τον πυρήνα των αναπτυξιακών διαταραχών των παιδιών με ελλείμματα στην προσοχή και τη μνήμη (κεφάλαιο 3). Θα παρουσιαστούν αντίστοιχα εργαλεία παρέμβασης που έχουν κατασκευαστεί στον ελλαδικό και διεθνή χώρο με στόχο τη βελτίωση της λειτουργικότητας σε διάφορους τομείς της καθημερινής ζωής σε παιδιά με διαταραχή ελλειμματικής προσοχής και υπερκινητικότητας (κεφάλαιο 4).Θα γίνει ανάλυση της Μεθοδολογίας της Έρευνας και της κατασκευής του παιχνιδιού σύμφωνα με συγκεκριμένο πλαίσιο σχεδίασης (κεφάλαιο 5). Τέλος θα παρουσιαστούν τα αποτελέσματα της έρευνας με τεκμηρίωση μέσω των t test που έγιναν πριν και μετά την παρέμβαση. Αναφέρονται δυνατά σημεία, περιορισμοί και μελλοντικές προεκτάσεις της έρευνας (κεφάλαιο 6).
Towards Cross-Border Fisheries Management: An Analysis of Fleet Structures and Species-Specific Regulatory Measures in the Aegean Sea
Authors: DERELİ HAKKI , ÜNAL VAHDET , ULMAN AYLIN , GIOVOS IOANNIS , TOSUNOĞLU ZAFER , PRODROMITIS GEORGE , MOUTOPOULOS DIMITRIOS K.
Published: July 2024

Intrinsic differences in the applied management measures of shared stocks in transboundary waters inhibit the ability of either state to benefit from such measures, as one state may benefit in lieu of the other, thus reducing the efficacy of both. This study compares for the first time the fleet structure, specific management measures applied to species-specific regulations for commercial fishing, species listed in official monitoring schemes, and protected taxa between Greece and Türkiye for the Aegean Sea. A comparative analysis utilizing the official data was sourced from both countries. Large-scale Greek and Turkish fishing fleets have been modernized within the last 30 years (1991-2021). Greek and Turkish large-scale fishing fleets included smaller trawlers with lower tonnage and slightly higher engine horsepower, while purse seines of both states included larger vessels with higher horsepower and tonnage. This indicates that the fishing pressure on the demersal resources in the Aegean Sea has partially decreased, but the fishing pressure on pelagic resources has increased despite the decrease in the number of vessels. Only 11 out of 74 minimum conservation reference sizes (MCRS) are sufficiently set above the Lm50 sizes they should be based on, whereas 18 species need reproductive studies, and 22 are set below the Lm50, and could benefit from an increase. The application of specific closed seasons for commercial species was used by both states with the intent to protect the reproductive periods of some stocks. However, several of these closure periods did not fully or even partially cover the spawning periods of the respective species. Species-specific closures were applied to 13 species in Greece and 23 species in Türkiye, with only two fish species (Xiphias gladius and Thunnus thynnus) listed for both countries. Only 14 species (out of 34 protected by Greece and 46 by Türkiye) are protected by both states, most of which are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). Harmonization of fisheries management measures currently does not align between the two neighbouring states, and the General Fisheries Commission of the Mediterranean is the competent authority that would be able to restructure such measures, especially as Türkiye has been aligning their measures with that of the EU for the accession process. This contribution highlights the clear differences between Greece and Türkiye, and provides advice for developing a unified management regime for the Aegean Sea.
The reproductive pattern of the white barrel jellyfish Rhizostoma pulmo (Cnidaria, Scyphozoa) in the gulf of Taranto (Ionian Sea)
Authors: MAMMONE MARTA , BASSO LORENA , RIZZO LUCIA , ARAVIND AMRUTHA , PAGLIARA PATRIZIA , PIRAINO STEFANO
Published: July 2024

Understanding the mechanisms that lead to the proliferation of large jellyfish populations over time is crucial to prevent andmitigate any possible negative impacts on human activities and ecosystem functioning. Rhizostoma pulmo (Macri, 1778) is an outbreak forming species of the Mediterranean Sea that has been observed in anthropized areas including the Gulf of Taranto. To describe seasonal changes in the reproductive patterns of R. pulmo from May to December 2016, we measured jellyfish diameter, the number and diameter of oocytes using histological and biochemical analyses (lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, and organic matter), as well as the gonadal somatic index (GSI). Jellyfish size did not fluctuate considerably during the collection period, with specimens measuring between 19.5 and 38.2 cm in diameter. Our findings revealed a strong gonadal activity over the summer and a spawning event between September and October. Male and female gonad morphology was similar to other previously reported Rhizostomeae. Oocytes were categorized into three developmental classes, recognizable by their diameter and shape: <15 μm for pre-vitellogenesis, 15-30 μm for vitellogenesis, and >30 μm mature oocytes. The number of mature oocytes peaked in August, with smaller eggs recorded in May and October and larger eggs recorded near the end of the summer. The GSI fluctuated greatly between sampling dates, peaking in August. Lipid levels varied significantly throughout the sampling period, with the greatest value in May (277.26±98 μg lipid mg AFDW-1) and the lowest in September (70.36±41.5 μg lipid mg AFDW-1). Carbohydrates, proteins, and organic matter (62 ± 6 %) remained stable during the sampling period. The biochemical analyses of jellyfish sexual reproduction we report on here can be used as a tool for identifying jellyfish spawning periods and better understanding the reproductive process that control jellyfish population dynamics.
Factors contributing to moral distress among intensive care nurses: A scoping review
Authors: Ahmad Amina Mussa , Bani-Issa Wegdan , Refaat Fatma
Published: July 2024

Background: The intensive care unit (ICU) is a busy and complex workplace, and several work-related and personal factors are known to make ICU nurses more vulnerable to moral distress than other healthcare professionals. It is crucial to identify these factors to guide future studies and preventive strategies. This scoping review explores such factors to present current knowledge on the factors that trigger moral distress and to guide future research by reviewing studies to explore and summarize factors that trigger moral distress in ICU nurses. Methods: The PubMed, EBSCO, and CINAHL Plus databases were searched to identify potentially relevant studies published between 2011 to 2022. Inclusion criteria: peer-reviewed studies published in English that provided results regarding factors causes or correlated to moral distress in ICU nurses. After removing 618 duplicates, 316 papers were excluded after title and abstract screening, leaving 71 articles for full-text screening. A further 54 articles were excluded as their outcomes did not include factors that caused moral distress, or were not specific to ICU nurses, so 17 studies were eventually analysed using qualitative content analysis through an inductive approach. The findings of the articles were extracted and coded independently by two authors, and data were grouped and categorized. Results: The content categories of factors contributing to ICU nurses' moral distress were organized into themes and subthemes. Four major themes were identified: Powerlessness, end-of-life care, ineffective teamwork, and personal characteristics of ICU nurses. Conclusions: This review highlights the factors that contribute to moral distress in critical care nurses, which are mainly attributable to the organizational climate and the nature of the ICU clinical environment. Descriptive and intervention studies (experimental or action research) must investigate causality between identified variables to inform management strategies to improve support for ICU nurses’ coping relative to moral distress.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Values of miRNAs in High-Grade Gliomas: A Systematic Review
Authors: Aman Renindra Ananda , Pratama Mohammad Galih , Satriawan Ricky Rusydi , Ardiansyah Irfani Ryan , Suanjaya I Ketut Agus
Published: July 2024

Abstract* Background Gliomas, particularly glioblastomas, have grim prognoses, necessitating early diagnostic and prognostic indicators. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), influential in cancer research, show potential as glioma biomarkers. This systematic review aimed to examine the efficacy of miRNAs in the diagnosis and prognosis of high-grade glioma. Methods A comprehensive search was conducted of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science for studies published from 2013 to 2023. The eligibility criteria included high-grade glioma, histopathological confirmation, miRNA samples from cerebrospinal fluid or plasma, and relevant outcome data. Studies were excluded if they were experimental or reviews and not in English. Results Of the 1120 initial results, 8 studies involving 660 subjects met the inclusion criteria. Several studies have assessed miRNA expression and its association with diagnosis and prognosis of high-grade gliomas. Overexpression of miR-221, miR-222, miR-210, miR-21, miR-125b, and miR-223 and under-expression of miR-15b and miR-124-3p showed significant potential in differentiating high-grade glioma patients from controls. Additionally, miRNAs are associated with distinct tumorigenic pathways. Conclusion Elevated or depressed expression levels of specific circulating miRNAs hold significant promise as noninvasive biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of high-grade glioma. These miRNAs offer valuable insights into disease progression and patient outcome. Further validation through extensive clinical trials and in-depth mechanistic studies is essential to realize their full clinical utility.
The Influence of Various Types of Physical Activity on Blood Pressure. A Literature Review
Authors: Kołodziej Wojciech , Mańdziuk Dominika , Żuchowski Michał , Niewinna Patrycja , Zaroda Przemysław , Dąda Paweł , Kołodziej Klaudia , Korga Monika , Wawrzkowicz Jakub , Pawlik Paweł
Published: July 2024

Blood pressure is a key indicator of cardiovascular health, playing a significant role in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of heart and vascular diseases. In recent years, interest in the influence of physical activity on blood pressure has increased among researchers and health-conscious individuals. Among the studies presented, researchers examined the effects of various types of physical activity on blood pressure in individuals with hypertension and the level of hypertension control, as well as other components affecting the overall health of patients, such as blood lipid levels, arterial pressure variability over 24 hours, and BMI. The conclusions of the presented studies seemed to be consistent regarding the positive impact of engaging in physical activity on blood pressure and thus the better well-being of patients.
Atypical y educación inclusiva en la universidad: sensibilización ética con estudiantes de profesorado.
Authors: Cambra-Badii Irene , Belén Mastandrea Paula
Published: July 2024

En la educación de nivel superior se han detectado dificultades para asegurar el acceso y permanencia de estudiantes que presentan alguna condición de discapacidad o neurodiversidad. Esto puede prevenirse y revertirse a través de la sensibilización ética de futuros profesionales sobre educación inclusiva. De acuerdo con el modelo teórico de James Rest, la sensibilidad ética consiste en la evaluación de una situación en función de un sistema de valores, identificando las conductas y las personas involucradas, así como el modo en que éstas pueden afectar a los demás. El presente artículo tiene por objetivo el diseño y puesta a prueba de una actividad de sensibilidad ética sobre educación inclusiva en el nivel superior a partir del Racial and Ethical Sensivity Test utilizando una serie contemporánea de ficción. La metodología es eminentemente cualitativa. Participaron 20 estudiantes de profesorado, que debían identificar una serie de problemas éticos presentes en un fragmento de la serie Atypical y presentar propuestas de acción para abordar el tema en cuestión. Los resultados demuestran la detección de todos los problemas éticos presentes en el fragmento audiovisual. Las participantes adoptaron distintos roles profesionales para proponer sus intervenciones como docentes o psicopedagogas de la comunidad educativa. Asimismo, se observó la falta de conocimientos específicos sobre educación inclusiva en el nivel superior. Como conclusión, se destaca la utilidad de las ficciones audiovisuales para el diseño de actividades que exploren la sensibilidad ética y se pone de manifiesto la relevancia de la formación en ética profesional para agentes educativos.
Protótipo de oficina de capacitação em acessibilidade visual em mídias sociais digitais.
Authors: Bernardes Esteves Moreira Tainá , Ferreira de Oliveira Guilherme , Maciel Suely
Published: July 2024

Com a evolução da tecnologia no último século o ambiente digital vem cada vez mais se consolidando como espaço de participação e troca entre indivíduos, de maneira que as dinâmicas desenvolvidas online chegam a ditar o ritmo em que a própria sociedade se desenrola. As Relações Públicas, caracterizadas como agentes sociais responsáveis pela manutenção da esfera pública, encontram no ambiente digital um campo essencial para sua atuação e devem trabalhar em prol da promoção dessa participação online, atividade que é diretamente ameaçada pelas barreiras de acesso que impedem alguns públicos de participar desse local, como é o caso das pessoas com deficiência visual. Assim, considerando a vertente educativa das Relações Públicas e utilizando-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa de caráter exploratório-descritivo e pesquisa bibliográfica de revisão narrativa, propõe-se um modelo de oficina formativa sobre acessibilidade visual em mídias sociais digitais, objetivando enfrentar as barreiras de acesso nas plataformas (Instagram, Facebook, X e LinkedIn) a partir da difusão do conhecimento de técnicas e diretrizes de produção de conteúdo acessível. Após aplicação e validação, o modelo de oficina se mostra efetivo para a difusão do conhecimento tanto teórico quanto prático sobre acessibilidade em mídias sociais digitais e o reconhecimento de suas importâncias nas rotinas de produções de profissionais de comunicação, organizações e usuários em geral
Imagen y presencia de la mujer política en medios digitales regionales.
Authors: Álvarez García Cristina
Published: July 2024

Este artículo estudia el grado de representación que alcanza la mujer política de Castilla y León en tres diarios regionales digitales: diariodeleon.es, eladelantado.com y elnortedecastilla.es durante las campañas electorales de 2011 y 2015. El objeto de estudio es identificar tres puntos importantes: detectar la presencia de la mujer política en las instituciones de la comunidad de Castilla y León, estudiar la representación de mujeres y hombres políticos en los diarios regionales y, por último, comprobar el tratamiento y selección de la información que los periodistas redactan en sus diferentes textos e imágenes. Como metodología se han empleado dos técnicas de análisis –cualitativa y cuantitativa– que conforman la creación de una base de datos a modo de muestra para su posterior análisis. Se ha delimitado la investigación a las campañas electorales que tienen lugar del 6 al 21 de mayo de 2011 y del 8 al 23 de mayo 2015. Se han observado dos campañas electorales para comprobar si existe una evolución positiva en la representación política de la mujer de la campaña electoral más antigua a la más reciente en los diarios digitales de Castilla y León. Se concluye que los medios digitales analizados otorgan el mismo tratamiento informativo a las personalidades políticas independientemente de que pertenezcan al sexo masculino o femenino. Como conclusión general se demuestra que entre 2011 y 2015 existe una evolución positiva tanto en la participación de la mujer en las instituciones políticas como en la representación de la mujer política en los medios regionales digitales
Technical Note—Near-Optimal Bayesian Online Assortment of Reusable Resources
Authors: Feng Yiding , Niazadeh Rad , Saberi Amin
Published: July 2024

Near-Optimal Bayesian Online Assortment of Reusable Resources

Motivated by rental services in e-commerce, we consider revenue maximization in the online assortment of reusable resources for different types of arriving consumers. We design competitive online algorithms compared with the optimal online policy in the Bayesian setting, where consumer types are drawn independently from known heterogeneous distributions over time. In scenarios with large initial inventories, our main result is a near-optimal competitive algorithm for reusable resources. Our algorithm relies on an expected linear programming (LP) benchmark, solves this LP, and simulates the solution through independent randomized rounding. The main challenge is achieving inventory feasibility efficiently using these simulation-based algorithms. To address this, we design discarding policies for each resource, balancing inventory feasibility and revenue loss. Discarding a unit of a resource impacts future consumption of other resources, so we introduce postprocessing assortment procedures to design and analyze our discarding policies. Additionally, we present an improved competitive algorithm for nonreusable resources and evaluate our algorithms using numerical simulations on synthetic data.
Risk-Adaptive Local Decision Rules
Authors: Royset Johannes O. , Lejeune Miguel A.
Published: July 2024

The decision rules developed in this paper help managers recognize relationships between data and decisions and prescribe courses of actions that are guaranteed near-optimal as well as transparent and interpretable. Transparency and interpretability are prerequisites for any decision support tool that needs to be conveyed, understood, and justified broadly. An understanding of the relationship between data and decisions is important for managers as they identify the critical factors, prioritize their focus, guide the resource allocation, and develop mitigation strategies for handling data uncertainty. The relationship between data and decision can be especially convoluted for combinatorial optimization problems. We consider simple decisions rules that ensure transparency and interpretability, but also allow nearly any continuous decision rule within a unified framework of analysis. Our preferred adaptive minimum decision rule prescribes decisions with 1% relative suboptimality gap, on average, even when facing distributional shifts in out-of-sample testing.
Rethink urged on youth work course closure
Authors: Simpson Fiona
Published: July 2024

Experts fear suspension of long-standing university youth work course could undermine ‘exciting’ policy developments for the section
Research helps shape Care Review findings on improving outcomes
Authors: O'Higgins Aoife
Published: July 2024

The Independent Review of Children's Social Care has set out fundamental reforms for the care system in England. Here, a research team member explains how they gathered evidence, particularly on the role of kinship care
Tina Haux
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: July 2024

Derren Hayes speaks to the director of NatCen's new Centre for Children and Families
Children's workforce
Authors: Goddard Charlotte
Published: July 2024

With many parts of the sector facing recruitment challenges, Charlotte Goddard identifies developments in entry-level requirements and ongoing professional development for children's services practitioners