bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct whole-body muscle MRI imaging patterns in PAX7-congenital myopathy: A case report
Authors: Haliloğlu Göknur , Donkervoort Sandra , Yıldız Sibel Öz , Potticary Abigail , Hu Ying , Pais Lynn , Carlier Robert Y. , Amthor Helge , Aydıngöz Üstün , Bönnemann Carsten G.
Published: January 2025

PAX7 is a myogenesis transcription factor important for satellite cell specification and function and thus involved in muscle growth, maintenance, repair and regeneration. Recently, a new autosomal recessive congenital myopathy was described that is caused by biallelic variants in PAX7. Our aim is to describe phenotype and whole-body muscle MRI with follow-up imaging findings in a patient with a novel homozygous missense variant in PAX7. We also compare our patients’ imaging features with a patient reported in the initial study, to identify a possible emerging pattern for PAX7-congenital myopathy. Generalized muscle hypotrophy and selective sternocleidomastoid, paraspinal and thigh muscle involvement emerge as suggestive findings and could serve as a recognizable fingerprint to differentiate early-onset myopathies within the emerging group of ‘primary satellite cell-opathies’.
Construction enthusiasts versus demolition giants: Insights from building footprint data in England
Authors: Yuan Xinyi , Li Ziqi , Basiri Ana , Wang Mingshu
Published: January 2025

This study uses building footprint data from the Ordnance Survey MasterMap to analyze construction and demolition activities across England from 2017 to 2023. By comparing the Topographic Object Identifiers (TOIDs) of each building between years, we identified newly constructed and demolished buildings, quantified changes, and used the bivariate color maps to visualize spatial patterns across England and within its five major cities. The study highlights the effectiveness of building footprint data in providing insights into urban changes and development trajectories, which are vital for urban planners and policymakers to understand dynamic urban processes and inform decision-making toward sustainable urban development.
Cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, and nitric oxide as determinants of resting heart rate variability in non-hospitalized mild post-COVID individuals: a cross-sectional study
Authors: de Almeida Lucivalda Viegas , Santos-de-Araújo Aldair Darlan , da Silva Luís Cláudio Nascimento , Santos Patricia Martins , Maia Mariana Campos , Frutuoso Victória Pereira , Rocha Daniel Santos , Rêgo Adriana Sousa , Bassi-Dibai Daniela
Published: January 2025

Background

The association between plasma lipids, nitric oxide (NO) and cardiovascular risk has been well documented in the literature, however, the association between these outcomes and heart rate variability (HRV) in COVID-19 remains incipient as there is no scientific evidence that has investigated this outcome.

Objective

Investigate whether metabolic outcomes may be associated with cardiac autonomic behavior arising from short-term HRV variables in non-hospitalized mild post-COVID individuals.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study. Individuals of both sexes, aged ≥ 18 years, who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 according to the RT-PCR test, without the need for hospitalization, were included. The HRV was collected in the supine position for at least 10 min for later analysis in the Kubios software. Metabolic outcomes [high density lipoprotein (HDL) (mg/dL), cholesterol (mg/dL), triglycerides (mg/dL) and NO (µmol/L)] were collected through a blood sample.

Results

Seventy-three individuals were included (post-COVID = 32; control = 41). HRV was worse in the post-COVID group when compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Cholesterol, HDL, triglycerides and NO showed significant correlations with HRV indices. Regression models indicated that cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as NO, explain up to 30.3% of the variations in certain HRV indices, suggesting an impact of metabolic outcomes on autonomic modulation.

Conclusion

There is a relationship between plasma lipids, NO and HRV in non-hospitalized individuals with mild COVID-19. Metabolic outcomes are associated and explain between 16.6% and 30.30% of certain variables of resting HRV in post-COVID individuals.

Clinical trial number

Not applicable.
The study of pubertal stage and age of menarche in girls in Isfahan province, Iran
Authors: Mozafarian Nafiseh , Hashemipour Mahin , Maracy Mohammad Reza , Pourrajab Masoumeh , Omidi Razieh , Kelishadi Roya
Published: January 2025

Background

The onset age of pubertal changes varies widely among girls and has undergone changes over time around the world. This study aimed to determine the age of onset of puberty in healthy Iranian girls living in Isfahan province.

Methods

This cross- sectional study was conducted among 13,886 students aged 6–18 years. They were selected by multistage random cluster sampling from urban and rural areas of Isfahan province of Iran. Pubertal stage was determined according the 5-level Tanner stages proposed by Marshall and Tanner. Trained physicians determined the breast development through both visual inspection and palpation, in addition, mothers assessed their daughter’s pubic hair growth using Tanner’s Sexual Maturation Scale (SMS) by comparison to standard pictures. The data were analyzed by the status quo method. Probit regression analysis was used to evaluate the median age of onset for each characteristic including menarche, breast and pubic hair.

Results

A total of 13,886 healthy girls with mean age (SD) of 11.97 (2.9) were studied. Overall 6968 (50.2%) girls experienced menstruation with a median (95%CI) age of 12.05(11.88–12.21) years at its onset. The median age for onset of breast development was 9.89 (95% CI: 9.77 − 10.02) years and for onset of pubic hair development was 10.14 (95% CI: 9.88– 10.39) years. The 3rd percentile for breast stage 2 (B2) and pubic hair stage 2 (PH2) was 6.85 and 6.75 years, respectively, and the 97th percentile for B2 and PH2 was 12.94and 13.54 years, respectively.

Conclusion

According to our findings, the onset of puberty before 6.85 years should be considered as precocious puberty for Iranian girls. Our study indicated the secular trend toward earlier menarche in girls. Nationally representative surveys and longitudinal studies are necessary to determine the exact age of puberty for future international comparisons.
Perceptions and experiences of healthcare professionals of implementing the Organ Donation (Deemed Consent) Act in England during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Al-Haboubi Mustafa , McLaughlin Leah , Williams Lorraine , Noyes Jane , O’Neill Stephen , Boadu Paul , Bostock Jennifer , Mays Nicholas
Published: January 2025

Context

In May 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, England implemented a ‘soft’ opt-out system of consent to deceased organ donation. As part of a wider evaluation, this analysis focused on the perceptions of health care professionals, specifically their experiences of implementation.

Methods

Mixed-methods study informed by Normalisation Process Theory, based on two national surveys of health care professionals and interviews, observations and document analysis, across two case study sites. Routine NHS Blood and Transplant’s audit data provided context.

Findings

70 interviews with 59 staff and 244 first and 738 second surveys. COVID-19 affected every aspect of implementation. Although supportive in principle, many staff were unconvinced that legislative changes alone would increase consent rates. Many staff were redeployed or left their jobs. As a result, staff were not able to work collectively as intended for implementation. Staff received routine donor audit data suggesting the law was yet to make a difference to consent rates, reducing their enthusiasm and commitment.

Conclusions

Implementation could have been more impactful if delayed. The National Health Service needs to reprioritise organ donation and relaunch the implementation plan in the post-pandemic period, though it is unlikely the changes will bring about a significant increase in consent rates.
Assessing the determinants of out-of-pocket health expenditures among Cambodian households in informal employment using survey data
Authors: Kaiser Andrea Hannah , Mao Sovathiro , Sundewall Jesper , Ross Marlaina , Koy Sokunthea , Vorn Searivoth , Koeut Pichenda , Ekman Bjoern
Published: January 2025

Background

As the deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals approaches, financial protection in Cambodia remains inadequate, especially for nonpoor informal workers lacking formal social health protection coverage or access to other prepayment schemes. This exposes them to high out-of-pocket health expenditures (OOPE) and related financial hardship. To better understand the drivers behind these expenditures, our study aims to model their healthcare, health, and social determinants and to assess their relative importance.

Methods

In 2023, we conducted a cross-sectional multistage clustered sampling survey across seven Cambodian provinces, surveying 3,254 households engaged in informal employment and not covered by any formal social health protection scheme. The survey gathered information on households’ use of outpatient and inpatient care and associated OOPE. We employed generalized linear models (GLMs) to analyse the healthcare, health, and social determinants of OOPE and the OOPE budget share (the proportion of total annual household consumption expenditure spent on OOPE) and applied Shapley decomposition analysis to quantify the relative contributions of these determinants to the explained variance in our outcomes.

Results

Healthcare variables were the dominant contributors to the explained variance in all outcomes (41.36–50.73%), followed by health factors. While several social variables were significant, only the wealth quintile made notable contributions to explaining variance in our outcomes. The key healthcare contributors included the sector type and level of care, and the number of outpatient medications. Important health contributors included illness severity and the presence of chronic illnesses or noncommunicable diseases.

Conclusions

Our findings emphasize the necessity of integrating nonpoor informal workers and their dependents into formal prepayment schemes to reduce OOPE and enhance financial protection on Cambodia’s path toward universal health coverage. Strategically engaging with private providers and pharmacies to improve access to essential services and medicines, coupled with the implementation of an effective referral system are important policy considerations to this end. Further research is needed on how health determinants are modifiable with policy interventions. Our findings can assist the Cambodian government in advancing its universal health coverage goals and offer insights for other countries aiming to extend coverage to similar population groups.
Detection of breast cancer lesions using APT weighted MRI: a systematic review
Authors: Lee Ryan C. , Boparai Montek Singh , Duong Tim Q.
Published: January 2025

Amide proton transfer (APT) is a novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique that has shown promising ability to study cancers. This paper systematically reviewed the literature on the use of APT MRI in the prognosis of breast cancer. A literature search was conducted on Pubmed and Embase and a total of 14 articles comprising 775 patients were included in the review. APT MRI had the ability to distinguish between benign and malignant lesions with an AUC as high as 0.959. There is a positive correlation between APT signal intensity and tumor grade/stage as well as Ki-67, whereas no correlation was found with ER/PR/Her-2 receptor status. There was a greater decrease in APT signal intensity after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in responders compared to non-responders, suggesting that APT MRI may serve as a valuable supplemental tool in the early identification of chemotherapy response. APT has the potential to complement with other imaging methods in the diagnosis, prognosis, treatment monitoring, and management of breast cancer. Additional studies and standardization of APT acquisition methods are needed.
Myeloid cell-derived apCAFs promote HNSCC progression by regulating proportion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells
Authors: Ren Feilong , Meng Lin , Zheng Shize , Cui Jiasen , Song Shaoyi , Li Xing , Wang Dandan , Li Xing , Liu Qilin , Bu Wenhuan , Sun Hongchen
Published: January 2025

It is well-known that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are involved in the desmoplastic responses in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC). CAFs are pivotal in the tumor microenvironment (TME) molding, and exert a profound influence on tumor development. The origin and roles of CAFs, however, are still unclear in the HNSCC, especially antigen-presenting cancer-associated fibroblasts (apCAFs). Our current study tried to explore the origin, mechanism, and function of the apCAFs in the HNSCC. Data from single-cell transcriptomics elucidated the presence of apCAFs in the HNSCC. Leveraging cell trajectory and Cellchat analysis along with robust lineage-tracing assays revealed that apCAFs were primarily derived from myeloid cells. This transdifferentiation was propelled by the macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), which was secreted by tumor cells and activated the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway. Analysis of the TCGA database has revealed that markers of apCAFs were inversely correlated with survival rates in patients with HNSCC. In vivo experiments have demonstrated that apCAFs could facilitate tumor progression. Furthermore, apCAFs could modulate ratio of CD4+ T cells/CD8+ T cells, such as higher ratio of CD4+ T cells/CD8+ T cells could promote tumor progression. Most importantly, data from in vivo assays revealed that inhibitors of MIF and p-STAT3 could significantly inhibit the OSCC growth. Therefore, our findings show potential innovative therapeutic approaches for the HNSCC.

Significance: ApCAFs derived from myeloid cells promote the progression of HNSCC by increasing the ratio of CD4+/CD8+ cells, indicating potential novel targets to be used to treat the human HNSCC.

Graphical Abstract
Exosomal insights into ovarian cancer stem cells: revealing the molecular hubs
Authors: Sojoudi Kiana , Solaimani Maryam , Azizi Hossein
Published: January 2025

Ovarian cancer is a deadly disease, often diagnosed at advanced stages due to a lack of reliable biomarkers. Exosomes, which carry a variety of molecules such as proteins, lipids, DNA, and non-coding RNAs, have recently emerged as promising tools for early cancer detection. While exosomes have been studied in various cancer types, comprehensive network analyses of exosome proteins in ovarian cancer remain limited. In this study, we used a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Using the Clustermaker2 app and the MCODE algorithm, we identified six significant clusters within the network, highlighting regions involved in functional pathways. A four-fold algorithmic approach, including MCC, DMNC, Degree, and EPC, identified 12 common hub genes. STRING analysis and visualization techniques provided a detailed understanding of the biological processes associated with these hub genes. Notably, 91.7% of the identified hub genes were involved in translational processes, showing an important role in protein synthesis regulation in ovarian cancer. In addition, we identified the miRNAs and LncRNAs carried by ovarian cancer exosomes. These findings highlight potential biomarkers for early detection and therapeutic targets.
Nociceptor-localized KCC2 suppresses brachial plexus avulsion-induced neuropathic pain and related central sensitization
Authors: Xian Hang , Guo Huan , Liu Yuan-Ying , Ma Sui-Bin , Zhao Rui , Zhang Jian-Lei , Zhang Hang , Xie Rou-Gang , Guo Xu-Cheng , Ren Jie , Wu Sheng-Xi , Luo Ceng , Cong Rui
Published: January 2025

Lack in understanding of the mechanism on brachial plexus avulsion (BPA)-induced neuropathic pain (NP) is the key factor restricting its treatment. In the current investigation, we focused on the nociceptor-localized K+-Cl− cotransporter 2 (KCC2) to investigate its role in BPA-induced NP and related pain sensitization. A novel mice model of BPA on the middle trunk (C7) was established, and BPA mice showed a significant reduction in mechanical withdrawal threshold of the affected fore- and hind- paws without affecting the motor function through CatWalk Gait analysis. Decreased expression of KCC2 in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) was detected through Western blot and FISH technology after BPA. Overexpression of KCC2 in DRG could reverse the hyperexcitability of DRG neurons and alleviate the pain of BPA mice synchronously. Meanwhile, the calcium response signal of the affected SDH could be significantly reduced through above method using spinal cord fiber photometry. The synthesis and release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was also proved reduction through overexpression of KCC2 in DRG, which indicates BDNF can also act as the downstream role in this pain state. As in human-derived tissues, we found decreased expression of KCC2 and increased expression of BDNF and TrκB in avulsed roots of BPA patients compared with normal human DRGs. Our results indicate that nociceptor-localized KCC2 can suppress BPA-induced NP, and peripheral sensitization can be regulated to reverse central sensitization by targeting KCC2 in DRG at the peripheral level through BDNF signaling. The consistent results in both humanity and rodents endow great potential to future transformation of clinical practice.
Effect of drought disturbance in a sclerophyll forest on the micromammal community in the Río Clarillo National Park, Metropolitan Region, Chile
Authors: Fletcher Susan , Sarmiento Carlos , Stotz Gisela C. , Quirici Verónica
Published: January 2025

Background

Micromammals play an important role in mediterranean ecosystems. The “megadrought” in the sclerophyll forest has caused a “browning” that implies, among other things, the reduction of canopy cover. The effects of forest browning on the taxonomic and functional diversity of micromammals were evaluated.

Methods

Forests with high and low disturbance degree were characterized based on the level of browning and canopy cover. To study the community of micromammals in these forests, the Capture-Mark-Recapture method was used with Sherman traps. Community indices such as Shannon–Wiener and Pielou were calculated. The Coefficient of Variation was used to study functional diversity for each trait separately. Multivariate measures FRic, FEve and FDiv were used to determine multidimensional diversity.

Results

We observed differences in species composition and in richness, diversity, and cover variables between forest types. However, micromammal communities were similar in taxonomic and functional diversity in highly and slightly disturbed forests.

Discussion

The micromammal community appears to show some resistance to forest changes due to disturbance, which could be related to their generalist diet and high dispersal capacity. The presence of the genus Rattus could entail a decrease in native rodent diversity and could have a greater effect than the disturbance of the forest due to drought. These results are an invitation to conduct long-term studies to better understand the potential vulnerability of the different micromammal species to disturbed sclerophyll forests affected by drought.
CFO: Calibration-Free Odds Bayesian Designs for Dose Finding in Clinical Trials
Authors: Fang Jialu , Zhang Ninghao , Wang Wenliang , Yin Guosheng
Published: January 2025

PURPOSE

Calibration-free odds type (CFO-type) designs have been demonstrated to be robust, model-free, and practically useful, which have become the state-of-the-art approach for dose finding. However, a key challenge for implementing such designs is a lack of accessible tools. We develop a user-friendly
R
package and
Shiny
web-based software to facilitate easy implementation of CFO-type designs. Moreover, we incorporate randomization into the CFO framework.

METHODS

We created the
R
package CFO and leveraged
R Shiny
to build an interactive web application, CFO suite, for implementing CFO-type designs. We introduce the randomized CFO (rCFO) design by integrating the exploration-exploitation mechanism into the CFO framework.

RESULTS

The CFO package and CFO suite encompass various variants tailored to different clinical settings. Beyond the fundamental CFO design, these include the two-dimensional CFO (2dCFO) for drug-combination trials, accumulative CFO (aCFO) for accommodating all dose information, rCFO for integrating exploration-exploitation via randomization, time-to-event CFO (TITE-CFO), and fractional CFO (fCFO) for addressing late-onset toxicity. Using all information and addressing delayed toxicity outcomes, TITE-aCFO and fractional-aCFO are also included. The package provides functions for determining the subsequent cohort dose, selecting the maximum tolerated dose, and conducting simulations to evaluate performance, with results presented through textual and graphical outputs.

CONCLUSION

The CFO package and CFO suite provide comprehensive and flexible tools for implementing CFO-type designs in phase I clinical trials. This work is highly significant as it integrates all existing CFO-type designs to facilitate novel trial designs with enhanced performance. In addition, this promotes the spread of statistical methods using a user-friendly
R
package and
Shiny
software. It strengthens collaborations between biostatisticians and clinicians, further enhancing trial performance in terms of efficiency and accuracy.
Nivolumab With or Without Ipilimumab in Patients With Recurrent or Metastatic Merkel Cell Carcinoma: A Nonrandomized, Open-Label, International, Multicenter Phase I/II Study
Authors: Bhatia Shailender , Topalian Suzanne L. , Sharfman William , Meyer Tim , Steven Neil , Lao Christopher D. , Fariñas-Madrid Lorena , Devriese Lot A. , Moore Kathleen , Ferris Robert L. , Honma Yoshitaka , Elias Ileana , Srirangam Anjaiah , Garnett-Benson Charlie , Lee Michelle , Nghiem Paul
Published: January 2025

PURPOSE

Approximately 50% of patients with advanced Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) have primary or acquired resistance to PD-(L)1 blockade, which may be overcome using combination immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) with anti–cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 antibody. We present results from the recurrent/metastatic MCC cohort in CheckMate 358, a nonrandomized, multicohort, phase I/II study of nivolumab (NIVO) with or without ipilimumab (IPI) in virus-associated cancers (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:
NCT02488759
).

METHODS

ICI-naïve patients with recurrent/metastatic MCC and 0-2 previous systemic therapies were administered NIVO monotherapy at 240 mg once every 2 weeks or combination therapy with NIVO 3 mg/kg once every 2 weeks + IPI 1 mg/kg once every 6 weeks. The primary end point was objective response. Secondary end points included duration of response (DOR), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Sixty-eight patients received NIVO (n = 25) or NIVO + IPI (n = 43). The objective response rate (95% CI) and median DOR (95% CI), respectively, were 60% (38.7 to 78.9) and 60.6 months (16.7 to not applicable [NA]) with NIVO and 58% (42.1 to 73) and 25.9 months (10.4 to NA) with NIVO + IPI. The median PFS (95% CI) and OS (95% CI), respectively, were 21.3 (9.2 to 62.5) and 80.7 (23.3 to NA) months with NIVO and 8.4 (3.7 to 24.3) and 29.8 (8.5 to 48.3) months with NIVO + IPI. The incidence of grade 3/4 treatment-related adverse events was 28% with NIVO and 47% with the combination.

CONCLUSION

This nonrandomized study showed frequent and durable responses with both NIVO and NIVO + IPI in patients with ICI-naïve advanced MCC. However, it did not show improvement in efficacy with the combination, thus contradicting previous study reports that had suggested clinical benefit with combination ICI. A randomized trial of NIVO + IPI versus NIVO monotherapy is warranted.
Predictive Performance of 2 Immunoassays in Patients with Graves Disease Undergoing Radioiodine Therapy: Prospective Study
Authors: de Souza Marcus Vinícius Rodrigues , Sapienza Marcelo Tatit , Brito Luciana Pinto , Cortez Pedro Afonso , Marui Suemi
Published: January 2025

Context

Radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment is a well-established successful treatment for Graves disease (GD) but causes an increment in autoantibodies, particularly TSH receptor antibodies.

Objective

To assess the performance and prognostic role of Immulite thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) and Elecsys thyrotropin receptor antibodies (TRAbs) immunoassays in patients with GD undergoing RAI therapy.

Methods

Clinical and laboratory data of 188 patients (156 GD and 32 toxic nodule goiter), undergoing RAI therapy between January 2018 and January 2022 were prospectively collected over 12 months. Refractoriness was defined as persistent or recurrent hyperthyroidism 6 months post-RAI treatment without levothyroxine. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and generalized estimated equations.

Results

Patients had a mean age of 46.4 years, and 78.2% were women. RAI therapy was indicated in 94.2% due to uncontrolled hyperthyroidism or ATD therapy relapse (median of 35 months). Immulite TSI showed higher clinical sensitivity and accuracy (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.98, sensitivity 92.0%, accuracy 98.4%) than Elecsys TRAb (AUC: 0.97, sensitivity 82.1%, accuracy 91.2%). Successful treatment was achieved in 112 of 126 GD patients (89%). Thyroid volume, 2-hour iodine-131 uptake, free thyroxine and thyroxine levels, Elecsys TRAb, and Immulite TSI were significantly higher in the refractory group (P < 0.05), despite most patients receiving >300 Gy of RAI. Longitudinal thyrotropin evaluation predicted treatment response at 12 months (P = .01), whereas autoantibodies did not.

Conclusion

Refractoriness to RAI therapy was associated with higher levels of Immulite TSI and Elecsys TRAb prior to treatment. Although AUCs for both assays were equivalent, Immulite TSI demonstrated superior clinical sensitivity and accuracy. Despite distinct autoantibody patterns emerging post-RAI, longitudinal monitoring did not predict treatment response after 1 year but indicated persistently high concentrations.
Who Bears the Burden of Local Taxes?
Authors: Brülhart Marius , Danton Jayson , Parchet Raphaël , Schläpfer Jörg
Published: January 2025

We study the distributional effects of local taxes. They turn out to be strikingly progressive. We calibrate a municipality-level structural model with quasi-experimental estimates of taxpayer mobilty by family type. Households with children are found to be less mobile than households without children and to have stronger preferences for locally provided public goods. Combined with capitalization of taxes into housing prices and nonhomothetic housing demand, this implies that the incidence of local income taxes mainly falls on high-income childless households. Increases in local income taxes, even if flat rate, turn out to be more progressive than property taxes. (JEL H22, H71, R21, R31)
«Παιγνίδι ρόλων»: η εναλλαγή των δύο όψεων της πραγματικότητας στην εκπαίδευση
Authors: Θανοπούλου Ευγενία
Published: January 2025

Κατά τη διάρκεια της πανδημίας covid-19 το ελληνικό εκπαιδευτικό σύστημα δοκιμάστηκε ως προς την ετοιμότητά του να λειτουργήσει εξ αποστάσεως. Έκτοτε, μελέτες και έρευνες εστίασαν στις προκλήσεις με τις οποίες ήρθε αντιμέτωπο και τις προοπτικές του. Το παρόν άρθρο υποστηρίζει ότι η εξ αποστάσεως εκπαίδευση έκανε εντονότερη ή/και επιτάχυνε μια ήδη υπάρχουσα κατάσταση: το φαινόμενο του εθισμού στα ηλεκτρονικά μέσα. Παράλληλα, επεξέτεινε το χάσμα ανάμεσα στην εικονική πραγματικότητα, στην οποία οι μαθητές περιηγούνται καθημερινά, και την κοινωνική πραγματικότητα, η οποία συγκροτείται από την αλληλεπίδραση των φυσικών υποκειμένων. Εάν η εκπαίδευση αποσκοπεί στην κατανόηση του κόσμου και στη συγκρότηση του νοήματός του από τους μαθητές, τότε ο ρόλος της συνίσταται πλέον στη δημιουργία συνθηκών κατανόησης της διττής πραγματικότητας. Η σύνδεση των δύο όψεων της σύγχρονης ζωής αποτελεί προϋπόθεση για την ομαλή προσαρμογή του μαθητή στο εκάστοτε κοινωνικό πλαίσιο. Αλλά, αυτό προϋποθέτει την εφαρμογή βιωματικών τεχνικών διδασκαλίας, οι οποίες αντικαθιστούν τον στείρο διάλογο μαθητή – εκπαιδευτικού με πρακτικές που είναι προσανατολισμένες προς την ενσωμάτωση της εμπειρίας (βιώματος) στη θεωρία και vice versa. Σε αυτή τη διαδικασία καλείται να εισέλθει πρώτος ο εκπαιδευτικός, μέσα από ένα «παιγνίδι ρόλων» ή «παρουσίας – απουσίας», ευνοώντας την καλλιέργεια του κριτικού στοχασμού και του αυτοελέγχου.
Η Εξάρτηση από τα Διαδικτυακά Παιχνίδια ως Εμπόδιο στην Κατανόηση Κειμένου σε Αρχάριους Αναγνώστες
Authors: Χατζηαποστόλου Ελένη
Published: January 2025

Στην παρούσα εργασία εξετάζεται η εξάρτηση από τα διαδικτυακά παιχνίδια που εκτυλίσσονται σε ψηφιακές ή άλλες οθόνες και συσκευές, ως εμπόδιο στην κατανόηση του γραπτού κειμένου σε αναγνώστες αρχάριους, όπως είναι τα παιδιά της ηλικίας των 10 -12 ετών. Η προσήλωση που απαιτεί η ανάγνωση προκειμένου να γίνει η επεξεργασία, η κατανόηση, η γνώση και η μεταγνώση που συνοδεύουν την ενασχόληση με τον γραπτό λόγο μπορεί να κονιορτοποιηθεί από εσωτερικούς ή εξωγενείς παράγοντες. Ο παράγοντας της ενασχόλησης με τα ψηφιακά παιχνίδια και η εξάρτηση που προκύπτει από αυτήν αποτελεί ένα πρόσφατο -στις δεκαετίες που διανύουμε- πρόβλημα, που αξίζει να περιγραφεί και να αξιολογηθεί στον βαθμό που παρεμποδίζει την εξοικείωση με τον γραπτό λόγο και την κατανόησή του. Η εξασφάλιση εξάλλου της βασικής ικανότητας της ανάγνωσης των μαθητών και μάλιστα στις πρώτες τάξεις φοίτησης στο Δημοτικό σχολείο- προδιαγράφει και περαιτέρω την επιτυχημένη μαθησιακή πορεία. Εφόσον λοιπόν η ενασχόληση με τα ηλεκτρονικά ή άλλα παιχνίδια διαδικτύου προκαλέσει στον νέο μαθητή εξάρτηση από αυτά, είναι φανερό ότι η τάση αυτή επηρεάζει τον βαθμό της συγκέντρωσης, την αφοσίωση και την υπομονή που απαιτεί η ανάγνωση ενός κειμένου στοιχειώδους δυσκολίας. Επομένως, ένας αρχάριος αναγνώστης με εξάρτηση από ηλεκτρονικά ή άλλα ψηφιακά παιχνίδια, επιβαρύνεται σημαντικά στην πορεία κατάκτησης και κατανόησης του γραπτού λόγου, καθώς παρεμποδίζεται η συνεχής και προσηλωμένη ανάγνωση, αποσπάται νοητικά και πρακτικά η προσοχή του και «τρικλοποδίζεται» συστηματικά η ανάγκη να συνομιλήσει ενεργά με την πραγματικότητα του γραπτού λόγου. Η παρέμβαση κρίνεται έτσι επιβεβλημένη.
Εργαστήριο Φιλαναγνωσίας: «Ένας κόσμος στα πόδια μου»
Authors: Τζήλου Γεωργία , Καλαφάτη Έλενα
Published: January 2025

Στην παρούσα εργασία παρουσιάζεται ο σχεδιασμός, η πραγματοποίηση και η αξιολόγηση των αποτελεσμάτων ενός εργαστηρίου, που έλαβε χώρα στη Δημόσια Κεντρική Βιβλιοθήκη Καλαμάτας, κατά το Γ΄ τρίμηνο του έτους 2023-2024, στο πλαίσιο της Καλοκαιρινής Εκστρατείας Ανάγνωσης και Δημιουργικότητας της Εθνικής Βιβλιοθήκης της Ελλάδος με τίτλο «Από τη γη στον ουρανό, μαθαίνω, σκέφτομαι, ζω…». Το εργαστήριο περιλαμβάνει μία σειρά από δραστηριότητες προσφέροντας στα παιδιά μια μοναδική ευκαιρία να συμμετάσχουν σε ποικίλες δραστηριότητες φιλαναγνωσίας και δημιουργικής μάθησης.Σκοπός είναι η διαμόρφωση ενός μαθησιακού περιβάλλοντος ανοιχτού και ευέλικτου με εκπαιδευτικές πρακτικές και ιδέες για την επιλογή ή και τον σχεδιασμό υλικού, προς αξιοποίηση, κατά το δυνατόν στο πλαίσιο της Βιβλιοθήκης. Τα αποτελέσματα από την πραγματοποίηση του εν λόγω εκπαιδευτικού εργαστηρίου ήταν ιδιαίτερα ενθαρρυντικά για μελλοντικές και ανάλογες δράσεις, γι’ αυτό θα μπορούσε να αποτελέσει αφόρμηση για την ένταξη στη Δημόσια Κεντρική Βιβλιοθήκη Καλαμάτας ανάλογων εκπαιδευτικών δράσεων.
Χώροι τέχνης και αστική πολιτική: Η ενσωμάτωση των καλλιτεχνικών χώρων στις διαδικασίες του αστικού εξευγενισμού
Authors: Μπολωνάκη Στυλιανή
Published: January 2025

Το άρθρο εστιάζεται στους νέους χώρους τέχνης στην Αθήνα, οι οποίοι κάτω από τον όρο «δημιουργικές πρωτοβουλίες» έχουν εξελιχθεί σε βασικούς παράγοντες της aθηναϊκής αστικής αναγέννησης, συστήνοντας τη δημιουργικότητα ως μοχλό κοινωνικοοικονομικής ανάπτυξης των aθηναϊκών συνοικιών. Το κείμενο επεξεργάζεται τα χαρακτηριστικά των χώρων αυτών, αναλύοντας τη γενεαλογία τους και τη δυναμική τους ενσωμάτωση στην παραγωγή της πόλης, εστιάζοντας στα παραδείγματα των ευρωπαϊκών πόλεων και δίνοντας ιδιαίτερη έμφαση στο μοντέλο που εφαρμόζεται στο Παρίσι σήμερα, αντλώντας από δύο γνωσιολογικά πεδία: τις αστικές σπουδές και την κοινωνιολογία της τέχνης. Το άρθρο επιθυμεί να  προσφέρει μια νέα οπτική στους διαύλους επικοινωνίας μεταξύ της καλλιτεχνικής πρακτικής και της αστικής πολιτικής.
Engagement and retention of Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) contributors in cancer clinical trials – a scoping review protocol
Authors: Medved Katarina , Kearney Patricia , Biggane Alice , Raigal Laia , Pope Johanna , Shiely Frances
Published: January 2025

Background Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) in research has gained increasing recognition as it has a potential to enhance research relevance, quality, ethical conduct and credibility of research. Maintaining engagement and retaining PPI contributors throughout the clinical trial lifecycle can be challenging. Currently, there is limited understanding of effective engagement and retention strategies. Therefore, the aim of this scoping review is to identify the strategies and reported barriers to engaging and retaining PPI contributors in cancer clinical trials. Methods This scoping review will be conducted using the framework proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR), will be used to guide the reporting. Searches will be conducted of PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and Web of Science supplemented by grey literature searches, from 2014 to October 2024. In collaboration with an experienced research librarian, a comprehensive PubMed search strategy was developed. Cancer clinical trial papers incorporating PPI at any stage of the trial process will be included. Before commencing full data charting, the data extraction form will be pilot tested. The data will be synthesised using a narrative synthesis approach, supplemented by descriptive statistics where appropriate. Conclusion This scoping review will comprehensively identify and map existing scientific literature on PPI in cancer clinical trials, providing evidence on strategies used to engage and retain PPI contributors. The findings will offer guidance to health professionals on effective approaches for involving and supporting PPI contributors in cancer trials.
Risky sexual behaviours and utilization of HIV testing services among the adolescent girls and young women aged between 15-24 years in Kibra Sub County, Nairobi County, Kenya
Authors: Mutie Onesmus Muti , Ngure Kenneth , Mokaya Aggrey Gisiora
Published: January 2025

Background HIV remains a significant global health challenge, disproportionately affecting adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). HIV testing is crucial in controlling transmission and reducing its prevalence. Understanding risky sexual behaviours among AGYW is pivotal in aligning prevention interventions. Despite global prevention efforts, testing gaps persist among AGYW, linked to risky sexual behaviour (RSB). This study explores the association between these behaviours and HIV testing utilization among AGYW (aged 15–24) in Kibra Sub County, Nairobi. Methods A cross-sectional study sampled 379 AGYW from three wards in Kibra Sub County in Nairobi County. To be an eligible participant, one must have been a resident for at least one year before the time of the study and aged between 15–24 years, employing standardized structured interviewer-administered questionnaires and statistical analyses. Results were analysed using Chi-square tests and a manual stepwise procedure was used to enter variables with p-values <0.1 in the bivariate model analysis into the multivariate logistic regression model at 95% Confidence Interval. Data was collected between June to July 2023. Results Majority (80.7%) of the respondents were single, married (18.2%) or separated (1.1%). Almost two-thirds (64.6%) were educated to secondary school level, while tertiary and primary levels accounted for 23.5% and 11.6% respectively. Overall, HIV testing prevalence was 60.7% (n=230). Those aged 20–24 were 71.3% (n=164), with secondary education were 63.5% (n=146) and married 28.7% (66) were more likely to undergo testing. Respondents who failed to use condoms in their last sexual encounter demonstrated a higher probability of testing for HIV (OR 3.96,955 CI:2.12,7.58, p<0.001). those who experienced gender-based violence were had a higher likelihood of testing (OR: 4.65, 95% CI: 1.93,13.87, p-0.002) Participants engaging in risky behaviours such as lack of condom had higher odds of testing for HIV (AOR: 4.27, 95% CI: 2.25, 8.30, p-<0.001) relative to those who used protection. Conclusions This study establishes a clear link between risky sexual behaviours and HIV testing among AGYW Utilization of HIV testing among this population is still low. Efforts to enhance testing rates are vital. Interventions should align with acceptable methods, focusing on this high-risk group to ensure effective HIV care and prevention. The Ministry of Health should consider integration of HIV services in various service delivery points, upscale the uptake of HIV-self testing for both oral and blood blood based and support social protective measures for AGYW to ensure effective HIV care and prevention.
La(s) teoría(s) de la argumentación y sus aplicaciones
Authors: Alcaide Lara Esperanza del Rocío , Padilla Herrada Mª Soledad , Pérez Béjar Victor
Published: January 2025

Esta obra constituye una muestra representativa de la investigación que llevan a cabo actualmente los miembros del grupo Argumentación y Persuasión en Lingüística (HUM-659). El volumen reúne trabajos que muestran las diferentes perspectivas y orientaciones desde las que se puede emprender el análisis de la argumentación, teniendo en cuenta que esta se encuentra presente, en mayor o menor medida, en cualquier tipo de texto. En estos estudios se abordan tanto mecanismos específicos como estrategias más generales vinculadas a la construcción de textos que tienen una finalidad persuasiva y que abarcan distintos ámbitos comunicativos, como las redes sociales (Instagram, Youtube y Twitter/X), los textos «sobre mí» en negocios basados en marca personal o el discurso institucional. El análisis de todos ellos se aborda desde una perspectiva pragmática, en la que se tienen en cuenta todos los componentes del esquema comunicativo.
Investigation of the Dimensions and Measurement of Compensatory Consumption Behavior at Different Scales.
Authors: Sidra Sidra
Published: January 2025

This paper utilizes a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods to conduct an exploratory study on the
structural dimensions of compensatory consumption behavior, based on the Compensatory Consumption Theory and existing
research findings. It analyzes the meaning and structure of compensatory consumption behavior and develops and validates
a measurement scale using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. The research demonstrates that compensatory
consuming behavior is a complex concept with several dimensions, including symbolic, enhancing, hedonic, emotional
restorative, and resilience. The assessment scale comprises five components and 26 questions. Subsequent examination and
experimentation demonstrate that the scale has strong reliability and validity, making it a proficient instrument for assessing
compensatory consuming behavior.
DISEÑO DE UNA TRAYECTORIA HIPOTÉTICA DE APRENDIZAJE PARA INTRODUCIR LA INFERENCIA ESTADÍSTICA INFORMAL EN PRIMARIA
Authors: Estrella Soledad , Morales Sergio , Méndez-Reina Maritza , Vidal-Szabó Pedro , Ramírez Brahiam , Mondaca-Saavedra Alejandra
Published: January 2025

Mediante un estudio de diseño que desarrolla una trayectoria hipotética de aprendizaje para la inferencia estadística informal (ISI), se introdujo a estudiantes de grado 3 y 4 (n=23), conceptos claves de variabilidad, muestreo repetido y distribución muestral empírica. La trayectoria de cinco pasos con un enfoque lúdico del experimento aleatorio del lanzamiento de dos monedas comprendía: obtener muestras; reconocer la incertidumbre y expresarla con lenguaje de posibilidades; contrastar predicciones mediante muestreo repetido; visualizar y reconocer la variabilidad entre muestras; asignar niveles de posibilidades considerando la distribución muestral empírica al generalizar más allá de los datos. Los resultados indican que los estudiantes de ambos grados pueden acceder a conceptos de la ISI, logrando hacer inferencias informales y presentando niveles sofisticados en el razonamiento propio de la ISI.
Are Agricultural Youth Directors Prepared to Talk About Mental Health?
Authors: Barnett Kaleigh , Cuthbertson Courtney , Rudolphi Josie
Published: January 2025

Highlights

Over half of agricultural youth directors rarely discuss mental health issues such as depression and suicidal thoughts.

There is a significant correlation between the frequency of mental health discussions and agricultural youth directors' self-reported knowledge and confidence levels.

Integrating tailored mental health training into professional development programs could enhance the effectiveness of youth mentoring in agricultural settings.

Abstract. This study evaluates how frequently agricultural youth directors discuss mental health topics with youth and explores the influence of directors' knowledge and confidence on these discussions. We conducted a cross-sectional online survey assessing mental health knowledge and confidence among 242 directors from 4-H, Extension, and FFA in Illinois. The results indicate that discussions on sensitive mental health issues such as depression, suicide, traumatic experiences, isolation, eating disorders, self-harm, and substance use are infrequent and correlate with agricultural youth directors' limited knowledge and confidence in addressing these issues. The findings underscore the importance of mental health literacy as an essential part of professional development for agricultural youth directors and advocate for integrating mental health considerations into youth development models in agriculture. This research fills a gap in the existing literature on mental health in agricultural settings by pinpointing key areas for improving agricultural youth directors' ability to support youth mental health effectively. Keywords: Agriculture youth directors, Mental health, Mental health literacy, Public health, Youth.
Contribution of feed supplementation to zootechnic performance of African dwarf sheep in West Africa: A review
Authors: Dokui Faustin , Chrysostome Christophe A.A.M. , Babatoude Severin , Houndonougbo Frederic M.
Published: January 2025

Like gasoline is essential for a combustion engine, feed is indispensable for animals. Besides the main feed, a supplemental diet is essential, even indispensable, to help animals reach optimal production in the ruminant feeding and nutrition system. The main objective of this review was to summarize the research performed across the West Africa area on diet supplementation for African dwarf sheep. By examining some scientific articles published from 2010 to 2021, identified mainly from Scilit, Google Scholar, Elsevier, Springer Nature, PubMed, AJOL, and Scirp, we identified more than 43 feed supplements made from more than 96 local ingredients grouped into 54 agricultural and industrial by-products, seven minerals and vitamins, four fodders, and four binders and other ingredients such as enzymes. The nutritional content of most of those feed supplements based on their crude protein, crude fiber, ash, calcium, phosphorus, and gross energy contents meet recommended standards of NRC. The digestibility of the nutritional component of the feed supplement fluctuates from 20.90% (organic matter) to 94.85% (ether extract). They enabled a good average daily gain (37.03 g to 100 ga good feed conversion ratio (4.62 to 13.73). The review shows that it is possible to achieve acceptable zootechnical performance using feed supplements made with local ingredients available in each West African country.
Effect of Centella asiatica as feed additive on blood profile, egg quality and gut microbial contents of ISA brown laying birds
Authors: Ajibade Olabisi , Tayo Grace Oluwatoyin , Olumide Martha Dupe , Akintunde Adeyinka Oye
Published: January 2025

The use of medicinal plants is gaining popularity all over the world; hence there is a need to exploit various plants that could be of economic importance to animal. This study was conducted to investigate the utilization of Centella asiatica leaf meal (CALM) as feed additive in layers production. The study was carried out in two phases, the grower phase and layer phase. A total number of 150 birds were used at 10 birds per replicate of 3 replicates per treatments of a total of 5 treatments. The diets contained CALM at five levels of inclusion 0.0 % (control), 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6% and 0.8% at grower and layer phases. The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design layout. Hence, CALM showed potentials of being natural growth promoting additive. CALM used as additive at 0.2-0.8% inclusion level significantly increased (p0.05) final live weight, weight gain and improved feed conversion ratio at grower and layer phases. 0.6% inclusion of CALM increased packed cell volume (PCV) and haemoglobin (Hb) and 0.8% inclusion of CALM increased red blood cell (RBC) values at grower phase.  At layer phase, 0.6% inclusion of CALM significantly increased (p0.05) PCV and RBC while 0.8% CALM significantly increased (p0.05) haemoglobin (Hb) value but there was significant reduction (p0.05) in total bacteria count (TBC) at the caecum and ileum of birds at grower and layer phases respectively.  0.8% CALM inclusion resulted in significantly highest (p0.05) weight of eggs, hen day egg production at 4th, 8th and 12th week in lay. 0.6% inclusion of CALM significantly improved (p0.05) egg weight and yolk weight score at 12th weeks in lay. It can be concluded that the inclusion of CALM in the diets of Isa Brown birds, resulted in better blood profile, haematological and serum biochemical parameters, gut microbial population, egg production and quality of laying hens
Growth pattern and condition index of exploited Meretrix meretrix (Linnaeus, 1758) at Kambu River estuary, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Bahtiar Bahtiar , Purnama Muhammad Fajar , Baharuddin La Ode , Findra Muhammad Nur
Published: January 2025

Meretrix meretrix is one of the economical shellfish that has been exploited in Kendari Bay, Indonesia. Several studies have been done, but its growth pattern and condition index are not fully known. This study aims to determine its growth pattern and condition index at the Kambu River estuary, Kendari Bay. This research was conducted for 6 months from August 2021 to January 2022. Clams were collected using a rake, cleaned, and brought to the laboratory to be measured for length and weight using calipers and scales with an accuracy of 0.1 mm and 0.01g, respectively. Furthermore, the clam meat was dried using an oven and weighed. Data on growth and condition index were analyzed using simple regression and the Mann-Whitney test, respectively. The results showed that the growth of M. meretrix was in negative allometric conditions, with b values in males and females in the range of 2.20-3.00 and 1.86-2.73, respectively. The condition index of male and female clam ranged from 1.86-2.62 and 1.66-2.41, respectively, and differed significantly by month. The results of the Mann-Whitney test on clam showed that there was no significant difference between August-November and December-January. In conclusion, male and female clam had relatively different patterns based on the observation period, while the condition index was in the skinny and medium category