bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Color restoration of mural images based on a reversible neural network: leveraging reversible residual networks for structure and texture preservation
Authors: Xu Zhigang , Geng Changpeng
Published: October 2024

The Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang, a treasure of China's and the world's cultural heritage, contains rich historical and cultural deposits and has left precious relics of the history of human art. Over centuries, the Mogao Caves have been affected by natural and human factors, resulting in irreversible fading and discoloration of many murals. In recent years, deep learning technology has shown great potential in the field of virtual mural color restoration. Therefore, this paper proposes a mural image color restoration method based on a reversible neural network. The method first employs an automatic reference selection module based on structural and texture similarity to choose suitable reference mural images for the faded murals. Then, it utilizes a reversible residual network to extract deep features of the mural images without information loss. Next, a channel refinement module is used to eliminate redundant information in the network channels. Finally, an unbiased color transfer module restores the color of the faded mural images. Compared to other image color restoration methods, the proposed method achieves superior color restoration effects while effectively preserving the original structure and texture details of the mural images. Compared to baseline methods, the Structural Similarity Index (SSIM), Feature Similarity Index (FSIM), and Perception-based Image Quality Evaluator (PIQE) values are improved by 7.97%, 3.46%, and 13.98%, respectively. The color restoration of the Dunhuang Mural holds significant historical, artistic, cultural, and economic values, and plays a positive role in the preservation and inheritance of Chinese culture, as well as in the promotion of cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
Modeling unobserved geothermal structures using a physics-informed neural network with transfer learning of prior knowledge
Authors: Shima Akihiro , Ishitsuka Kazuya , Lin Weiren , Bjarkason Elvar K. , Suzuki Anna
Published: October 2024

Deep learning has gained attention as a potentially powerful technique for modeling natural-state geothermal systems; however, its physical validity and prediction inaccuracy at extrapolation ranges are limiting. This study proposes the use of transfer learning in physics-informed neural networks to leverage prior expert knowledge at the target site and satisfy conservation laws for predicting natural-state quantities such as temperature, pressure, and permeability. A neural network pre-trained with multiple numerical datasets of natural-state geothermal systems was generated using numerical reservoir simulations based on uncertainties of the permeabilities, sizes, and locations of geological units. Observed well logs were then used for tuning by transfer learning of the network. Two synthetic datasets were examined using the proposed framework. Our results demonstrate that the use of transfer learning significantly improves the prediction accuracy in extrapolation regions with no observed wells.
Surgery for non-Meckel’s small-bowel diverticular perforation: two case reports and a literature review
Authors: Matsuya Naoki , Kuwabara Akifumi , Morioka Nobuhiro , Tanabe Tadashi , Musha Nobuyuki , Nishikura Ken , Tsubono Toshihiro
Published: October 2024

Background

Similar to colonic diverticula, small-intestinal diverticula are often asymptomatic, but may cause life-threatening acute complications. Non-Meckel’s small-bowel diverticular perforation is rare, and the rate of mortality is high. However, there is currently no consensus regarding its therapeutic management.

Case presentation

Case 1: A 73-year-old Japanese man with localized lower abdominal pain was referred to our hospital. Enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed diverticulitis of the small intestine, which was managed conservatively. Four days after admission, abdominal pain worsened, and repeat CT revealed extraintestinal gas. Emergency surgery was performed for the segmental resection of the perforated jejunum with anastomosis. Case 2: A 73-year-old Japanese woman was transferred to our hospital with small-bowel perforation. CT revealed scattered diverticula in the small intestine and extraintestinal gas around the small-intestinal diverticula. Emergency surgery was performed for the segmental resection of the perforated jejunum with anastomosis.

Conclusions

Conservative treatment for small-bowel diverticular perforation may be attempted in mild cases; however, surgical intervention should not be delayed. Segmental resection of the affected intestinal tract with an anastomosis is the standard treatment. Residual diverticula should be documented because of the possibility of diverticulosis recurrence.
COVID-19 and its effects on food producers: panel data evidence from Burkina Faso
Authors: Druetz Thomas , Brenes-Garita Sara , Bicaba Frank , Tiendrebeogo Cheick , Bicaba Abel
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Burkina Faso implemented stringent measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic that profoundly affected its economy and might have exacerbated food insecurity. While prior studies have assessed the impact of these measures on consumers, there is a dearth of evidence of its effects on food producers in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study aims (i) to evaluate the repercussions of COVID-19 on the possession of food production assets and on the number of livestock owned; and (ii) to determine the correlation between the food insecurity experience scale (FIES) score, ownership of these assets, and the number of livestock owned.

Methods

This study employs a pre-post comparison design in two panels of randomly selected households in Burkina Faso. While Panel A was constituted of 384 households predominantly (76%) living in rural areas, Panel B comprised 504 households, only half of which (51%) lived in rural areas. All households were visited twice: in July 2019 and February 2021, for Panel A, and in February 2020 and February 2021, for Panel B. Panel B was added to the study before the pandemic thanks to additional funding; the timing of the survey was harmonized in both panels for the second round. Regression models were used with fixed effects at the household level, controlling for potential time-invariant confounding variables, and correlation coefficients between possession of production assets or number of livestock and FIES score were measured.

Results

Our findings indicate that the possession of some assets in Panel A (cart, livestock, bicycle, watch) was significantly reduced during the pandemic, as was the herd sizes among livestock-owning households in both panels. Households with fewer production assets and number of livestock were more likely to experience food insecurity.

Conclusion

This study underscores the vulnerability of rural households in Burkina Faso to the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing the challenges faced by farming and livestock-owning households is crucial for mitigating food insecurity and improving resilience in the face of ongoing crises.
Feature selection with annealing for forecasting financial time series
Authors: Pabuccu Hakan , Barbu Adrian
Published: October 2024

Stock market and cryptocurrency forecasting is very important to investors as they aspire to achieve even the slightest improvement to their buy-or-hold strategies so that they may increase profitability. However, obtaining accurate and reliable predictions is challenging, noting that accuracy does not equate to reliability, especially when financial time-series forecasting is applied owing to its complex and chaotic tendencies. To mitigate this complexity, this study provides a comprehensive method for forecasting financial time series based on tactical input–output feature mapping techniques using machine learning (ML) models. During the prediction process, selecting the relevant indicators is vital to obtaining the desired results. In the financial field, limited attention has been paid to this problem with ML solutions. We investigate the use of feature selection with annealing (FSA) for the first time in this field, and we apply the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso) method to select the features from more than 1000 candidates obtained from 26 technical classifiers with different periods and lags. Boruta (BOR) feature selection, a wrapper method, is used as a baseline for comparison. Logistic regression (LR), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), and long short-term memory are then applied to the selected features for forecasting purposes using 10 different financial datasets containing cryptocurrencies and stocks. The dependent variables consisted of daily logarithmic returns and trends. The mean-squared error for regression, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, and classification accuracy were used to evaluate model performance, and the statistical significance of the forecasting results was tested using paired t-tests. Experiments indicate that the FSA algorithm increased the performance of ML models, regardless of problem type. The FSA hybrid models showed better performance and outperformed the other BOR models on seven of the 10 datasets for regression and classification. FSA-based models also outperformed Lasso-based models on six of the 10 datasets for regression and four of the 10 datasets for classification. None of the hybrid BOR models outperformed the hybrid FSA models. Lasso-based models, excluding the LR type, were comparable to the best models for six of the 10 datasets for classification. Detailed experimental analysis indicates that the proposed methodology can forecast returns and their movements efficiently and accurately, providing the field with a useful tool for investors.
Patient and public involvement in an evidence synthesis project: description of and reflection on involvement
Authors: Thomson Katie , Todhunter-Brown Alex , Brady Marian C. , Campbell Pauline , Dorris Liam , Hunter Susan M. , Nicolson Donald J. , Hazelton Christine
Published: October 2024

Background

We conducted an NIHR-funded evidence synthesis project, reviewing evidence relating to interventions for perceptual disorders following stroke. This related paper describes how people with lived experience of stroke-related perceptual disorders contributed to and influenced the project, and identifies lessons for future review projects.

Methods

We planned our patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) activities within a study protocol, described according to the domains of the ACTIVE framework; these were founded on principles for good practice in PPIE. Activities occurred across the lifespan of the project, consisting primarily of group discussions and voting to determine if there was consensus. To assess impact and individual experiences, we sought feedback using an evaluation form after each discussion, and conducted an online meeting at the end of the project to allow further reflection.

Results

We recruited five people to a Lived Experience Group, including two stroke survivors and three carers. Members attended one face-to-face meeting during the development of the review. Subsequent activities were all held online due to the COVID-19 pandemic; with six online meetings, plus email interactions. Positive impacts of the Lived Experience Group on the reviews included clear definitions of key terms, selection of outcome measures, agreement on implications of review findings, and identification of research recommendations. Key challenges identified related to the complexity of the topic and challenges in the use of new online technology as a consequence of the COVID-pandemic.

Conclusions

A number of lessons were learned during this project. Specific recommendations for future PPIE are to ensure that those involved have an opportunity to get to know one another, and to provide optional sessions to increase familiarity with online meeting software, clear explanations of the purpose of involvement and specific feedback after each activity. These lessons should be considered when planning the PPIE within future reviews.
Racial biases, facial trustworthiness, and resting heart rate variability: unravelling complexities in pain recognition
Authors: Ceccarelli Ilenia , Bagnis Arianna , Ottaviani Cristina , Thayer Julian F. , Mattarozzi Katia
Published: October 2024

The study explores whether racial identity and appearance-based trustworthiness judgments can affect recognition of pain in medical students differing in levels of resting heart rate variability (HRV), a measure of parasympathetic control of the heart. After undergoing HRV assessment, 68 medical students (37 females) participated in a dynamic pain recognition task, viewing video clips of White and Black faces, which differed in perceived trustworthiness based on facial appearance, transitioning from neutral to intense pain expressions. Response time, pain intensity attribution and treatment recommendations were analyzed. Pain was recognized slower and estimated as less intense in Black compared to White faces, leading to a lower likelihood of recommending therapy. Pain recognition was faster for untrustworthy-looking White faces compared to trustworthy ones, while perceived trustworthiness had a minimal impact on the speed of pain recognition in Black faces. However, untrustworthy-looking faces were estimated to express more pain, particularly for Black faces. Notably, these biases were more pronounced in individuals with low, rather than high, resting HRV. Considering that therapeutic decisions mirrored pain intensity attribution, it would be important to increase awareness of these biases during medical training in order to promote equity in future pain assessment and treatment.
Far transfer of retrieval-practice benefits: rule-based learning as the underlying mechanism
Authors: Opitz Bertram , Kubik Veit
Published: October 2024

Benefits of self-testing for learning have been consistently shown for simple materials such as word lists learned by rote memorization. Considerably less evidence for such benefits exists for complex, more educationally relevant materials and its application to new situations. The present study explores the mechanisms underlying this transfer. To this end, a typical retrieval-practice-effect paradigm was applied to foster the learning of an artificial language. Participants either repeatedly studied grammatically correct exemplar sentences of the artificial language or engaged in a cloze test as the interim test after learning. To assess far transfer, participants in both groups of restudy and retrieval practice engaged in a grammaticality judgment test after a delay of 5 min and 1 week. In addition, participants in both groups completed a final memory test (i.e., a cloze test identical to the initial test) 1 week after learning. In addition to a long-term memory benefit of retrieval practice, results revealed also a retrieval-practice benefit in the far-transfer test after the 1-week delay. The findings further support the view that far transfer is supported by learning the underlying grammatical rules as opposed to memorizing the material. Thus, retrieval practice is also effective for fostering learning of complex materials and, even more importantly, for promoting transfer of learning—a crucial goal in modern educational practices.
Dispositional learning analytics and formative assessment: an inseparable twinship
Authors: Tempelaar Dirk , Rienties Bart , Giesbers Bas
Published: October 2024

Educational innovations, particularly those in online education and technology-enhanced learning, some accelerated by the recent pandemic, take centre stage in this journal. Examples include the resurgence of the flipped classroom methodology, supported by instructional technology, the utilization of formative assessment with technological assistance to provide effective learning feedback, and the integration of learning analytics within technology-enhanced learning. Despite empirical studies addressing these advancements individually, they tend to focus predominantly on the initial phase of learning feedback: where the learner currently stands. This paper contends that isolated depictions of formative assessment overlook the broader progress in technology-enhanced learning. Our contribution highlights the significance of dispositional learning analytics, which combines learning and learner data to offer insights into learners' current status, future trajectory, and methods to facilitate their advancement. We advocate for strengthening the integration of formative assessment data within learning analytics to fully harness their combined potential. An empirical study is presented to illustrate the predictive value of formative practice behaviour on module performance and explore the link between students' learning dispositions and their engagement with e-tutorials. By delineating student profiles based on practice behaviour and examining variations in learning dispositions, our aim is to enhance our comprehension of effectively supporting learners in technology-enhanced educational environments.
A rare occurrence of xanthine urolithiasis in siblings with Lesch–Nyhan syndrome treated with Allopurinol—a case report
Authors: Jodorkovsky Roberto , Trivedi Saloni , Rana Asama , Thomae Mitchell
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Lesch–Nyhan syndrome (LNS) is an X-linked disorder affecting the metabolism of the purine salvage pathway leading to excessive serum uric acid production. Treatment of hyperuricemia with Allopurinol is usually effective to lower serum uric acid concentration to acceptable levels. Allopurinol blocks the conversion of hypoxanthine and xanthine to serum uric acid in the purine degradation pathway. The effect of Allopurinol may result in excessive buildup of xanthine, potentially resulting in urolithiasis composed of xanthine. This rare occurrence poses a unique challenge maintaining a balance between lowering hyperuricemia and preventing the development of xanthine urolithiasis. This case report includes two siblings with LNS treated with Allopurinol who developed xanthine urolithiasis.

Case description

Patients are siblings, a 22-year-old male and a 21-year-old female, with LNS diagnosed in early childhood. They both share similar manifestations of the disease and were treated with Allopurinol with an intended therapeutic window of serum uric acid levels since diagnosis. Both were prone to developing urolithiasis and nephrolithiasis, the male more than the female, regardless of the medical regimen. Uric acid and calcium levels were normal in the serum and urine. Chemical analysis of calculi eliminated by both siblings revealed xanthine stones.

Conclusions

Patients with LNS tend to develop stones composed of urate. Rarely, they can also precipitate stones composed of xanthine resulting from its buildup in serum and urine by Allopurinol. This complication should be considered in all patients undergoing treatment with Allopurinol. Careful clinical monitoring and dose adjustments of Allopurinol must balance the need to control hyperuricemia with avoiding excessive blockade of hypoxanthine.
Microscale sampling of the coral gastrovascular cavity reveals a gut-like microbial community
Authors: Bollati Elena , Hughes David J. , Suggett David J. , Raina Jean-Baptiste , Kühl Michael
Published: October 2024

Animal guts contain numerous microbes, which are critical for nutrient assimilation and pathogen defence. While corals and other Cnidaria lack a true differentiated gut, they possess semi-enclosed gastrovascular cavities (GVCs), where vital processes such as digestion, reproduction and symbiotic exchanges take place. The microbiome harboured in GVCs is therefore likely key to holobiont fitness, but remains severely understudied due to challenges of working in these small compartments. Here, we developed minimally invasive methodologies to sample the GVC of coral polyps and characterise the microbial communities harboured within. We used glass capillaries, low dead volume microneedles, or nylon microswabs to sample the gastrovascular microbiome of individual polyps from six species of corals, then applied low-input DNA extraction to characterise the microbial communities from these microliter volume samples. Microsensor measurements of GVCs revealed anoxic or hypoxic micro-niches, which persist even under prolonged illumination with saturating irradiance. These niches harboured microbial communities enriched in putatively microaerophilic or facultatively anaerobic taxa, such as Epsilonproteobacteria. Some core taxa found in the GVC of Lobophyllia hemprichii from the Great Barrier Reef were also detected in conspecific colonies held in aquaria, indicating that these associations are unlikely to be transient. Our findings suggest that the coral GVC is chemically and microbiologically similar to the gut of higher Metazoa. Given the importance of gut microbiomes in mediating animal health, harnessing the coral “gut microbiome” may foster novel active interventions aimed at increasing the resilience of coral reefs to the climate crisis.
Assessment of prevalence, risk factors, and neuropsychiatric symptoms of mild neurocognitive disorder among elderly in Suez Canal Area
Authors: Abdelaziz Azza Saber , Sayed Haydy Hassan , Ibrahim Omneya , Elhusseiny Aya , Tantawy Ashraf El
Published: October 2024

Background

Mild neurocognitive disorder is mild reduction in cognitive abilities than a previous level, requiring compensatory strategies that help maintain independence, and is associated with behavioral and psychiatric symptoms. This cross-sectional comparative study aimed to evaluate prevalence of mild neurocognitive disorder, its risk factors, and associated neuropsychiatric symptoms. It included a sample of 156 elderly people ≥ 60 years old in Suez Canal Area from geriatric homes and primary health care centers. Study tools included a semi-structured clinical interview to assess sociodemographic, clinical, and lifestyle risk factors, DSM-5 criteria for diagnosis of neurocognitive disorders, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale, and the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire.

Results

Prevalence of mild neurocognitive disorder was 37.2% in total sample with mean total score of 22.7 ± 6.1 by Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale. The most common subtype was amnestic multiple domain subtype (72.4%). Its predicting factors included advanced age, lower education, physical work, non-adherence to treatment, less physical activity, bone and joint disorders, and family history of cognitive impairment. The neuropsychiatric symptoms with highest scores were sleep/nighttime behavior, depression, irritability, and eating/appetite, respectively. Among the two study groups, geriatric home residents had highly significant lower cognitive scores (p < 0.001) and higher Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire scores.

Conclusion

Mild neurocognitive disorder is common among elderly people and is associated with neuropsychiatric symptoms that need screening and management. Modifiable risk factors should be identified to provide interventions.
Simultaneous estimation of nebivolol hydrochloride and amlodipine besylate in human plasma employing an innovative HPLC chromatographic method
Authors: Vaditake Kaveri T. , Shirkhedkar Atul A.
Published: October 2024

Background

This study developed and validated a simple, robust, and cost-effective RP-HPLC bioanalytical method for the determination of nebivolol hydrochloride (NBH) and amlodipine besylate (AMB) in human plasma. Briefly, NBH and AMB were extracted from plasma through protein precipitation using 5% formic acid and acetonitrile. Chromatographic separation was achieved using an Inertsil ODS-3 V column (150 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) with a mobile phase composed of acetonitrile and buffer (40:60, v/v). The analysis was conducted using UV detection at 215 nm.

Results

The bioanalytical method demonstrated linearity for NBH (4.50–180.12 μg/mL) and AMB (3.50–140.06 μg/mL). It exhibited good selectivity and sensitivity, with LLOQ responses within ≤ 20% of the analyte signal. Accuracy and precision were within acceptable limits. The extraction recovery from human plasma showed a CV (%) of 1.15% for NBH and 1.35% for AMB, indicating consistent recovery rates. Stability studies on drug-spiked human plasma at LQC and HQC levels confirmed the stability of the drugs under various conditions.

Conclusion

The present bioanalytical method successfully quantified NBH and AMB simultaneously in plasma samples. It demonstrated suitability, supported by high recovery rates and low relative standard deviations. With its proven linearity, accuracy, and precision, this technique is well suited for drug identification in plasma samples.
Evaluating adherence and inhaler monitoring among adolescent asthmatic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of interventions
Authors: Osama Hasnaa , Alghamdi Saleh , AbdElrahman Mohamed , Abdelrahim Mohamed E. A.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Inadequate care for asthma has been linked to higher hospital admissions and morbidity. Researchers have developed several strategies to improve treatment adherence in this specific group. We aimed to investigate the impact of several interventions on the adherence of asthmatic patients to controller inhalers.

Data sources

We searched four databases (the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science) for studies published between 1998 and 2022.

Study selections

We considered studies that assessed adherence as the main finding of an intervention for asthma patients. Data were extracted and analyzed.

Results

The analysis included a total of 40 studies. A diverse range of interventions was identified, including educational sessions on asthma, reminders via text messages, and technology-based feedback systems. The overall efficacy of interventions compared to the control group resulted in a small effect size, but it was statistically significant, with an estimated SMD of 0.44 (95% CI 0.24 to 0.63, P < 0.001). Electronic monitoring achieved a significantly higher effect size [SMD 0.8, 95% CI 0.46 to 1.14, P < 0.001) compared to pharmacy refill and self-report methods [(SMD 0.09, 95% CI − 0.18–0.37, P = 0.51), and (SMD 0.25, 95% CI − 0.03, 0.54, P = 0.08), respectively].

Conclusions

Adherence promotion interventions have been proven effective among patients with asthma. Electronic monitoring modalities have demonstrated superiority and effectiveness in improving patient adherence to asthma inhalers. Additional longitudinal research studies can be conducted to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and identify a more accurate measure of intervention efficiency for prolonged follow-up time.
Marine microalgae for bioremediation and waste-to-worth valorization: recent progress and future prospects
Authors: Diankristanti Priskila Adjani , Ng I-Son
Published: October 2024

In the quest for sustainable environmental solutions, marine microalgae emerge as powerful allies in bioremediation and biomass valorization endeavors. This review navigates through various facets of marine microalgae utilization, starting with isolation, screening, and identification techniques, which lay the foundation for understanding strain diversity and capabilities. Delving deeper, bioremediation mechanisms performed by marine microalgae are elucidated, showcasing the natural capacity to cleanse polluted environments via biosorption, bioaccumulation, and biodegradation. Furthermore, the waste-to-worth valorization of marine microalgae is explored, with comprehensive discussions on conversions into biofuels, bioplastics, high-value products, and animal feed. As one way forward, emerging advancements in genetic engineering to enhance pollutant removal capacities are presented alongside the development of microalgae consortia and integrated waste treatment processes. This multidimensional approach highlights the ultimate potential of marine microalgae in bioremediation and biomass valorization, laying the groundwork for a sustainable future achieved by working with nature, hand-in-hand.
Mapping the pathway and support offered to children with an intellectual disability referred to specialist mental health services in the UK
Authors: Totsika Vaso , Yang Zhixing , Turner Lauren , Kohn Charmaine , Hassiotis Angela , Kennedy Eilis , Absoud Michael , McNamara Rachel , Randell Elizabeth , Levitt Sophie , Grant Gemma , Casbard Angela , Jacobs Lauris , Di Santo Cristina , Buckley Claire , Hignett Emma , Liew Ashley
Published: October 2024

Aims and method

This survey of 66 specialist mental health services aimed to provide an up-to-date description of pathways of care and interventions available to children with an intellectual disability referred for behaviours that challenge or with suspected mental health problems.

Results

Overall, 24% of services made contact with a family at referral stage, whereas 29% contacted families at least once during the waiting list phase. Only two in ten services offered any therapeutic input during the referral or waiting list stages. During the active caseload phase, services offered mostly psychoeducation (52–59%), followed by applied behaviour analytic approaches for behaviours that challenge (52%) and cognitive–behavioural therapy (41%). Thirty-six per cent of services had not offered any packaged or named intervention in the past 12 months.

Clinical implications

With increasing waiting times for specialist mental health support, services need to consider increasing the amount of contact and therapeutic input on offer throughout all stages of a child's journey with the service.
Thrombolysis in Acute Ischaemic Stroke Pathway
Authors: Chew Samuel , Kausar Shahid A , Sturman Steve
Published: October 2024

Thrombolysis of appropriate and selected patients presenting with an acute ischaemic stroke within 3 h of onset with recombinant Tissue Plasminogen Activator (alteplase, r-TPA) can be implemented safely, reduce long-term disability, and is recommended by the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence and the Department of Health's National Stroke Strategy. We have developed an integrated and comprehensive pathway in order to achieve the above aims, which also provide guidelines for nursing in the peri-acute period and management of complications arising from the ischaemic stroke itself, from thrombolysis or from concomitant hyperglycaemia.
Ο Μητροπολίτης Σερβίων και Κοζάνης Διονύσιος Ψαριανός (1957-1997)
Authors: Παυλίδου Παρασκευή
Published: October 2024

Στην παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή επιχειρείται η απόδοση της προσωπικότητας του μητροπολίτη Σερβίων και Κοζάνης Διονυσίου Ψαριανού (1957-1997), με ιστορική προσέγγιση, ενταγμένη στο εκκλησιαστικό και ιστορικό περιβάλλον της εποχής του. Τα στοιχεία που παρατίθενται αντλήθηκαν, πέρα από βιβλιογραφικές πηγές, από ιστορικά τεκμήρια του Ιστορικού Αρχείου της Εκκλησίας της Ελλάδος, τον τύπο, καθώς και προσωπικές μαρτυρίες οικείων προσώπων του. Περιγράφεται, επίσης, η εκκλησιαστική κατάσταση που επικρατούσε στη χώρα κατά την ποιμαντορία του και η συμμετοχή του Ψαριανού στις αποφάσεις της Εκκλησίας. Επιπλέον, γίνεται εμπεριστατωμένη παρουσίαση των σημαντικών έργων και δράσεών του, όπως η ανέγερση και λειτουργία εκκλησιαστικών ιδρυμάτων στη μητρόπολη Σερβίων και Κοζάνης, γεγονός που αποδεικνύεται από τα στοιχεία που φυλάσσονται στη μητρόπολη Κοζάνης, αναφορές στον τύπο και την προσωπική του αλληλογραφία με δωρητές, πολιτικούς και άλλα σημαίνοντα πρόσωπα. Ο Διονύσιος Ψαριανός υπήρξε μια ξεχωριστή προσωπικότητα της Εκκλησίας της Ελλάδος και μία από τις πιο σημαντικές μορφές της μεταπολεμικής εκκλησιαστικής και πολιτικής ιστορίας της χώρας. Η συμβολή του στην πολιτική και εκκλησιαστική ιστορία της περιοχής υπήρξε σημαντική, καθώς προσέφερε ένα σημαντικό θεολογικό, ποιμαντικό και κοινωνικό έργο. Η παρούσα μελέτη συμβάλλει σημαντικά στην ερευνητική κοινότητα, καθώς καταγράφει πρωτότυπο υλικό, παρουσιάζει μια εκτενή εκκλησιαστική περίοδο μέσα από πηγές και τον τύπο, περιγράφει τα έργα του Ψαριανού μέσα από αρχειακό υλικό και παραθέτει ένα μεγάλο παράρτημα με αδημοσίευτο υλικό, χρήσιμο για περαιτέρω μελέτες και επιστημονική έρευνα. Τέλος, διασταυρώνει ζώσες μαρτυρίες τόσο με βιβλιογραφικές αναφορές όσο και με αρχειακό υλικό.
A scoping review of health models for the community mental health needs of the United Arab Emirates: Nurturing the social determinants of mental health through social prescribing in the Middle East
Authors: Mottershead Richard , AL-Fayyadh Sadeq , Al-Yateem Nabeel , Subu Muhammad Arsyad , Bani-Issa Wegdan , Taha Mohamed Hassan , Ahmed Fatma Refaat , Dias Jacqueline Maria , Adams Shukri , Wali Adil Farooq , Shahrour Ghada , Al Mutair Abbas , Murendo Conrad , Alonaizi Nafi , Alhaiti Ali , Alruwaili Majed Mowanes , Alruwaili Abeer Nuwayfi , McManus Jim
Published: October 2024

Despite the growing interest in social prescribing the diversification of health and social care strategies to support the well-being of patients has remained entrenched with a focus on the hospital setting within the Middle East. The United Arab Emirates has commenced progressing community mental health care to lead changes in how care and treatment are delivered within the United Arab Emirates. The authors adopted the use of the framework of Arksey and O’Malley (2005) to provide a systematic approach to searching the literature and creating a comprehensive foundation to guide the review. This scoping review provides a better understanding of the compatibility, content and outcomes of a selection of health models whilst also allowing further clarification before empirical studies. The scoping review findings will inform the proposed use of social prescribing as an actionable approach to create a focus on the need to include and empower the social determinants of mental health. This article proposes an evidence-based health strategy that supports and enhances recent additions to national legislation on the inclusion of the Mental Health Law within the United Arab Emirates to meditate and prevent inequities in addressing the mental health needs of citizens and residents within the nation’s diverse communities.
Protocol to develop a specialised curriculum in primary care cancer research in an Irish medical school
Authors: Verlaque Logan , Jacob Benjamin , Araz Kurdo , Barrett Aileen , Kent Fiona , Redmond Patrick
Published: October 2024

Background The increasing necessity for specialised training in primary care cancer research stems from GPs' pivotal role in cancer detection and holistic care coupled with the unique primary care context. This has led to the development of the PRiCAN Scholars Network, an initiative to enhance the research capabilities of Graduate Entry Medicine (GEM) students in RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland. This protocol outlines a proposal for the systematic development, implementation, and evaluation of a curriculum aimed at improving the primary care cancer research skills of this cohort. Methods The curriculum development process will be guided by Kern’s six-step approach. Initial stages involve comprehensive needs assessments via surveys and focus groups to identify educational needs. Subsequently, targeted learning objectives and aligned educational strategies will be defined to maximise learning opportunities and impact. The curriculum’s impact will be evaluated in a pilot phase with selected students and faculty, utilising both qualitative and quantitative feedback to drive continuous improvements. Conclusion This protocol describes a detailed method for establishing a primary care cancer research curriculum within the PRiCAN Scholars Network. Designed with a focus on sustainability and adaptability, the curriculum will be structured to develop and support a generation of medical professionals' literate in primary care research, contributing to the advancement of medical education and cancer research.
Medical students’ knowledge on palliative care – a survey of teaching in Finland
Authors: Niemi-Murola Leila , Vanhanen Aija , Akrén Outi , Karihtala Peeter , Pöyhiä Reino
Published: October 2024

Background Most studies on palliative medicine (PM) undergraduate education have focused on contents and organizational issues but not the outcome. Students’ learning outcomes should be studied to improve teaching in medical schools. Methods A questionnaire about perceived PM education and attitudes on palliative care (PC) was sent to 543 last year students in all five Finnish medical schools in 2018–2019. In total, 175 (32 %) responses were received from four universities. The students evaluated both the quantity and quality of their PM teaching, implementation of European Association for Palliative Care (EAPC) guidelines and their satisfaction to the training. There were two palliative case scenarios, and the students were asked to find the best treatment option. In addition, students´ attitudes towards end-of-life (EOL) care issues were examined. Results In the Finnish universities, PM education was available mainly integrated with oncology, geriatrics, and general medicine. A total of two universities also offered a specific PM course. In average, 50–70% of the EAPC curriculum was covered by lectures, small-group teaching, seminars, and bedside teaching with significant differences between faculties. Only 30–60 % of students were satisfied with the education received. The highest rankings were given in the universities with a special PM course. Students from these universities expressed less anxiety in facing EOL issues. Conclusions In Finland, the coverage of EAPC curriculum is satisfactory, but the PM education is mainly given integrated with other specialties. The dedicated course on PM was associated with increased perceived knowledge and satisfaction of PM education. However, PM training was not associated with students’ attitudes on PC.
Propaganda postal y preocupaciones ciudadanas: así pidieron el voto por carta los partidos políticos en las elecciones de 2023 en España
Authors: Casandra López Marcos
Published: October 2024

Esta investigación pretende estudiar el uso de las cartas electorales como herramienta de propaganda ante una convocatoria electoral. Para ello, partimos de las misivas enviadas por los cuatro grandes partidos nacionales que concurrieron a las elecciones generales del 23 de julio de 2023 en España. A tal fin se analizan las diferencias entre las distintas cartas y se investiga si los candidatos usan las principales preocupaciones sociales como reclamo. Para ello, se articula una metodología mixta diseñada en dos fases: un análisis de contenido de tipo cualitativo y una comparación cuantitativa con la evolución de las preocupaciones, según el CIS, durante la legislatura. Los resultados permiten identificar algunas características comunes, así como poner de relieve que las misivas siguen una misma secuencia. En cuanto al contenido temático, los resultados muestran notables diferencias en función del bloque ideológico del partido político.
The Sort-Assemble-Blend Routing Problem and Its Application to Semiconductors
Authors: Mason A. Nicholas , Rosenberg Rachel A. , Rash Evan A. , Kempf Karl G.
Published: October 2024

Recent technological advances in the semiconductor industry have rapidly changed how products are designed and manufactured. Large “monolithic” designs, which integrate multiple functionalities in a single printed die, are being replaced with multidie products. To ensure the success of this transformation, it is critical to sort materials into categories and strategically build assemblies with maximum compatibility in mind. This enables manufacturing to be optimized to fulfill specific requirements for final products. However, it also means that more individual components must be managed, and decisions on how to assemble them must be made holistically. This creates a complex, nonlinear problem that combines qualities of both selective assembly and assembly routing problems. The result is named the sort-assemble-blend routing problem (SABR-P). Its solution approach is formulated using techniques including genetic algorithms, Monte Carlo simulations, linear programming, and machine learning. This framework has been successfully applied in practice, saving Intel Corporation more than $500 million thus far. It is the new standard for analyzing and optimizing Intel’s multidie products for the foreseeable future.

History: This paper has been accepted for the INFORMS Journal on Applied Analytics Special Issue—2023 Daniel H. Wagner Prize for Excellence in the Practice of Advanced Analytics and Operations Research.
Theoretical Quantum Mass
Authors: Pandey Rakesh Kumar
Published: October 2024

In the present theoretical work, attempts have been made to find the least mass, which quantifies the discrete mass, in terms of the reduced Planck constant and cosmological constant in the Heisenberg position-momentum uncertainty relation as well as by employing the time period of oscillating universes in mass-time inequality. It has been estimated and reported that the least mass exists in the range 5.98 × 10-74 < m < 2 × 10-68 kg, which quantifies discrete masses in the universe of size < 8.64 G ly.
Permanent racism: Derrick Bell’s racial realism
Authors: Warmington Paul
Published: October 2024

Chapter 3 explores the concept of ‘permanent racism’ by returning to the work of Derrick Bell, founder of Critical Race Theory. His idea of the permanence of racism is troubling, at odds with Britain’s contemporary postracial turn. CRT’s defining quality is its stark rejection of liberal models of race equality. This chapter traces CRT’s emergence from US critical legal studies, and its revisionist critique of civil rights policy. Examining these origins enables effective understanding of CRT concepts such as ‘interest convergence’, ‘contradiction closure’, ‘colourblindness’ and the critically important stabilising role of racism. Chapter 3 also discusses Bell’s satire ‘The Space Traders’, which narrativises Bell’s social analysis. Bell’s ideas are compared with those of US peers, such as Kimberlé Crenshaw and Eduardo Bonilla-Silva, and also with British scholars such as Stuart Hall and Mark Fisher, whose ideas about capitalist realism have under-discussed parallels with Bell’s ‘racial realism’. Chapter 3 traces CRT’s development across fields, through offshoots such as LatCrit and QueerCrit, and its international influence: in particular its growth in Britain, which has been contested but has been important in contemporary Black and antiracist thought. This chapter establishes CRT as a framework for examining Britain’s postracial turn.
Packages, facilitating subjects and ‘keeping the options open’ (A levels)
Authors: Abrahams Jessie
Published: October 2024

This chapter turns to the inequalities in the subject option structures for Advanced level (A level). A level qualifications are usually taken around 16–18 years old (following successful completion of GCSEs). In this research pupils were asked what they had chosen at GCSE and what they were hoping to study at A level. As was seen in the previous chapter with GCSE options, the Eagles Academy pupils’ A level choices were similarly restricted by a timetable blocking system. This chapter goes on to explore how pupils were informed of and supported in developing a ‘package’ of ‘useful’ and ‘valued’ subjects which would help them gain access to (elite) universities. This chapter draws upon the theorising of Bourdieu and Passeron (1990) to consider the unequal and arbitrary ways in which different subjects become legitimised and constructed as representations of superior forms of intelligence.
Disabled self-employed people and the UK welfare state
Authors: Arriaga Garcia Gerardo Javier , Kašperová Eva
Published: October 2024

The events of COVID-19 and social distancing restrictions have affected the livelihoods of many while testing the suitability of the UK’s welfare system to support those who are most in need. This chapter discusses the role of the welfare system in supporting disabled people entering work through self-employment and entrepreneurship. It maps out the existing welfare support schemes for disabled self-employed people. More specifically, it explores whether Universal Credit has stood the test of the pandemic in supporting aspiring and established disabled entrepreneurs.
Turning up the thermostat: the Conservatives, social policy and public opinion
Authors: Defty Andrew
Published: October 2024

In the period leading up to the 2010 general election, there was evidence of declining support for public spending and a hardening of attitudes towards benefits recipients, which aligned with the austerity agenda of the incoming Coalition government. This chapter examines shifts in public opinion in the period since 2015, following five years of austerity under the Coalition. Drawing on data from the British Social Attitudes survey and opinion polling, it traces shifting public attitudes towards tax and spend, changes in public priorities for state support and a softening of attitudes towards benefits recipients. It also examines public attitudes towards inequality in the context of the government’s ‘levelling up’ agenda as well as the impact of COVID-19 on public attitudes towards state provision.
Brexit and the Conservative Party’s social policies
Authors: Corbett Steven
Published: October 2024

The Conservative Party has attempted to manage the internal contradictions between its neoliberal and libertarian authoritarian wings through the process of exiting the European Union (EU). This has involved four changes of prime minister, two elections, prolonged negotiations with the EU and a deepening of welfare chauvinism in relation to social policies. This chapter examines the Right-wing drivers of the EU referendum, the vote itself and the post-Brexit implications for social policy. Social rights, immigration and work policies, health care and the tensions between the devolved governments of the UK during the Brexit process are assessed. While the welfare chauvinist shift has attempted to hold together the Conservative Party’s coalition of factions, the continuing problems of poverty, insecurity and weak economic competitiveness indicate further fragmentation and divergence in post-EU UK social policies.
The Johnson Conservative government, its conservatism and the pandemic response
Authors: Greener Ian
Published: October 2024

This chapter considers the response of the Johnson Conservative government to the COVID-19 pandemic. It argues that the pandemic response represents ‘cronyist populism’ in its combination of offering supporters access to lucrative contracts, which appear not to have delivered equipment or testing at the level required, and attempting to link the response to patriotism and the national interest, while, as has become apparent, the government itself was not following the regulations set out for the country. The chapter periodises the response in terms of complacency, panic, getting a grip, getting back to normal and a winter disaster, followed by freedom and living with the virus. The chapter then explores the government’s response in each of those periods, with special emphasis on the earlier ones, to demonstrate the means by which the government attempted to respond to the emerging crisis. It argues that rather than ‘getting the big calls right’, the response had very significant failings that led not only to the removal of Johnson himself, but also to the squandering of billions and a higher mortality rate than could or should have been the case.