bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and whole exome sequencing findings in children from Yunnan Yi minority ethnic group with retinitis pigmentosa: two case reports
Authors: Xiao Yi-shuang , He Wen-Ji , Jiang Hong-chao , Tan Li , Ma Jing , Zhang Zhen
Published: June 2023

Background

Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of rare hereditary retinal dystrophy diseases that lead to difficulty seeing at night, progressive loss of peripheral field vision (tunnel vision), and eventual loss of central vision. However, a genetic cause cannot be determined in approximately 60% of cases.

Case presentation

Two non-consanguineous Yi minority ethnic group families who have a 6.4-year-old boy and a 0.5-year-old boy, respectively, were recruited for genetic diagnosis. Here, we used whole-exome sequencing to detect mutations in the genes of the probands of the retinitis pigmentosa families, and Sanger sequencing to confirm the causal mutations identified by whole exome sequencing. In addition, we report two cases with retinitis pigmentosa caused by RDH12 (c.524C > T) and PRPF4 (c.1273G > A) pathogenic mutations.

Conclusions

These results might extend the mutation spectrum of known retinitis pigmentosa genes and give these two Yi minority ethnic group families from Yunnan more precise genetic counseling and more specific prognoses.
Marked hemopneumopericardium in a patient with rectal cancer with distant metastasis: a case report
Authors: Almulhim Sager , Almakhaita Ghada , AL-Osail Emad M.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Hemopneumopericardium defines a condition of combined pathology of weakened, dense blood content (hemopericardium) and air (pneumopericardium) in the pericardial cavity with an air fluid level. It is a rare disease, with only one such case reported in the literature. In this case report, we assessed a patient rectal cancer in addition to hemopneumopericardium, dyspnea, and chest pain.

Clinical case report

A 47-year-old Arab woman previously diagnosed with rectal cancer metastasized to bones, lymph nodes, and lungs post-Hartmann procedure reported to the emergency department complaining of worsening dyspnea for 2 weeks, more significantly in the supine position. A productive cough with yellowish sputum characterized this; however, there was no pertinent family or psychological history. Examination of the respiratory system revealed dullness on the left side associated with decreased breath sound. The chest radiograph also revealed marked hydro-pneumopericardium. Spiral computed tomography angiography of pulmonary arteries demonstrated pericardial effusion with the air fluid level at pericardial space, implying hydro-pneumopericardium.

Clinical conclusion

A successful pericardiocentesis was performed, in which 180 cc of blood-filled pericardial fluid was drained, suggesting the presence of hemopneumopericardium. Hemopneumopericardium has multiple etiologies, yet critical intervention is restricted in patients with cardiac tamponade. Hence, pericardiocentesis could be a definitive treatment.
Examining outcomes for service users accessing the Breaking Free Online computer-assisted therapy program for substance use disorders via a ‘telehealth’ approach: protocol for a two arm, parallel group randomized controlled trial
Authors: Elison-Davies Sarah , Pittard Lauren , Myton Tracey , Jones Andrew , Ward Jonathan , Davies Glyn
Published: June 2023

Background

Breaking Free Online (BFO), a computer-assisted therapy (CAT) program for substance use disorders (SUD), has been available across UK treatment services for the past decade and has demonstrated efficacy. The Covid-19 pandemic has contributed to digital and ‘telehealth’ approaches to healthcare delivery becoming more common and accepted, and has in parallel, increased numbers of referrals to SUD services because of the impact pandemic-related stress has had on substance using habits in the general population. Digital and telehealth approaches, such as BFO, have the potential to support the treatment system to meet this increased demand for SUD services.

Methods

Parallel-group randomized controlled trial of eight-week BFO as an adjunct to standard treatment for SUD, in comparison to standard treatment only, at a National Health Service (NHS) Mental Health Trust in North-West England. Participants will be service users aged 18 years and over with demonstrable SUD for at least 12-months. Interventional and control groups will be compared on multiple measures from baseline to post-treatment assessment at eight-weeks, and then three and six-months follow-up. Primary outcome will be self-reported substance use, with secondary outcomes being standardized assessments of substance dependence, mental health, biopsychosocial functioning and quality of life.

Discussion

This study will examine whether BFO and telehealth support, when delivered as an adjunct to standard SUD interventions, improves outcomes for services users receiving NHS SUD treatment. Findings from the study will be used to inform both developments to the BFO program and guidance around augmenting the delivery of CAT programs via telehealth.

Trial registration registered with ISRCTN on 25th May 2021—registration number: 13694016. Protocol version: 3.0 05th April 2022. Trial status: This trial is currently open to recruitment—estimated to be completed in May 2023.
Effects of dietary coenzyme Q10 supplementation during gestation on the embryonic survival and reproductive performance of high-parity sows
Authors: Cao Shanchuan , Yan Honglin , Tang Wenjie , Zhang Hongfu , Liu Jingbo
Published: June 2023

Background

Fertility declines in high-parity sows. This study investigated whether parity-dependent declines in embryonic survival and reproductive performance could be restored by dietary coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation.

Methods

Two experiments were performed. In Exp. 1, 30 young sows that had completed their 2nd parity and 30 high-parity sows that had completed their 10th parity, were fed either a control diet (CON) or a CON diet supplemented with 1 g/kg CoQ10 (+ CoQ10) from mating until slaughter at day 28 of gestation. In Exp. 2, a total of 314 post-weaning sows with two to nine parities were fed the CON or + CoQ10 diets from mating throughout gestation.

Results

In Exp. 1, both young and high-parity sows had a similar number of corpora lutea, but high-parity sows had lower plasma CoQ10 concentrations, down-regulated genes involved with de novo CoQ10 synthesis in the endometrium tissues, and greater levels of oxidative stress markers in plasma and endometrium tissues. High-parity sows had fewer total embryos and alive embryos, lower embryonic survival, and greater embryo mortality than young sows. Dietary CoQ10 supplementation increased the number of live embryos and the embryonic survival rate to levels similar to those of young sows, as well as lowering the levels of oxidative stress markers. In Exp. 2, sows showed a parity-dependent decline in plasma CoQ10 levels, and sows with more than four parities showed a progressive decline in the number of total births, live births, and piglets born effective. Dietary supplementation with CoQ10 increased the number of total births, live births, and born effective, and decreased the intra-litter covariation coefficients and the percentage of sows requiring farrowing assistance during parturition.

Conclusions

Dietary CoQ10 supplementation can improve the embryonic survival and reproductive performance of gestating sows with high parity, probably by improving the development of uterine function.
Determinants of body image disturbance and disordered eating behaviors among self-identified LGBTQ individuals
Authors: Kalash Nour , Harb Hana , Zeeni Nadine , El Khoury Myriam , Mattar Lama
Published: June 2023

It has been previously established that sexual minorities are more likely to suffer from mental health illnesses due to experiencing unique stressors such as fear, anxiety, stigma, harassment, and prejudice. Results revealed two noteworthy mental health disorders reported by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals, disordered eating behaviors and disturbed body image. Yet, a-priori studies revealed inconsistent results with regards to body image concerns and eating disorder symptoms and attitudes among sexual minorities. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aimed at investigating the occurrence of disordered eating behaviors (DEB) and body image disturbance (BID) among sexual minorities in Lebanon. Additionally, the correlation between several determinants of DEB and BID including fear of negative evaluation, generalized anxiety, social support, and harassment levels have been examined. Generally, the present study revealed that LGBTQ population scored higher than cisgender and heterosexual individuals for the mean and global scores of the EDE-Q6.0 and BAS-2. Only generalized anxiety and fear of negative evaluation scales were significantly associated with DEB and BID among different sexual orientation and gender identity individuals. Therefore, it is very important that health professionals working with such vulnerable populations meticulously assess for disordered eating behaviors and body image disturbance for better communication and management.
The association between screen use and central obesity among children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ghasemirad Mohammad , Ketabi Leyla , Fayyazishishavan Ehsan , Hojati Ali , Maleki Zahra Hosseinzadeh , Gerami Mohammad Hadi , Moradzadeh Mahdi , Fernandez Jaime Humberto Ortiz , Akhavan-Sigari Reza
Published: June 2023

Currently, there is no summative study evaluating the association between central obesity and screen time. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarize the results of studies evaluating the association between screen time and central obesity among children and adolescents. To this end, we performed a systematic search in three electronic databases, including Scopus, PubMed, and Embase to retrieve the related studies up to March 2021. Nine studies were eligible to be included in the meta-analysis. There was no association between odds of central obesity and screen time [odds ratio (OR) 1.136; 95% CI 0.965–1.337;P = 0.125]; however, waist circumference (WC) was 1.23 cm higher in those with highest screen time versus those in the lowest screen time category [weighted mean difference (WMD) = 1.23; 95% 95% CI 0.342–2.112;P = 0.007; Fig. 3]. Moreover, the possible sources of heterogeneity in the included studies were continent and sample size. No evidence of publication bias was reported. For the first time, the current systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that those with the highest screen time had higher WC compared with those with the lowest screen time. Although, there was no association between odds of central obesity and screen time. Due to the observational design of the included studies, it is impossible to infer the cause-effect relationship. Therefore, further interventional and longitudinal studies are warranted to better elucidate the causality of these associations.
Population-Based Pharmacodynamic Modeling of Omalizumab in Pediatric Patients with Moderate to Severe Persistent Inadequately Controlled Allergic Asthma
Authors: Zhu Rui , Wang Xiaoning , Anderson Eric , Deng Michelle , Pivirotto Scott , Jin Jin , Kassir Nastya , Owen Ryan
Published: June 2023

Omalizumab is the first approved anti-immunoglobulin E (IgE) agent for the treatment of moderate to severe persistent inadequately controlled allergic asthma in adults and adolescents (≥ 12 years old). In 2016, it was approved in pediatric patients (6–11 years old). The objective of this study was to quantitatively characterize the relationship between serum free IgE and pulmonary function (as measured by forced expiratory volume in 1 s [FEV1]) in pediatrics using a population-based pharmacodynamic model. Data collected during the steroid-stable period (first 24 weeks) of an omalizumab trial with pediatric asthma patients (Study IA05) were used to build the pediatric IgE–FEV1 model. The previously developed population IgE–FEV1 model in adults/adolescents was adapted to characterize the FEV1 and IgE relationship in pediatrics with different magnitude and onset of response. The pediatric IgE–FEV1 model adequately characterized the IgE–FEV1 relationship in pediatrics, particularly at the extremes of the observed body weights (i.e., ≤ 30 kg) and IgE values at screening (i.e., > 700 IU/mL). The estimated sigmoidal free IgE–FEV1 curves were similar in shape and maximum effect, but the estimated free IgE concentration leading to 50% maximum effect (IC50) in pediatric patients (39.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 24.3–63.9 ng/mL) was higher than estimated in adults (19.8, 95% CI 15.1–24.5 ng/mL). The model further confirmed that the current omalizumab dosing rationale based on the mean target free IgE level of 25 ng/ml was appropriate. The pediatric model can be used to predict population FEV1 response for omalizumab when combined with an omalizumab pharmacokinetic–IgE model.

Graphical abstract
Life Unadministered
Authors: Islam Najnin
Published: June 2023

A discourse of care undergirded colonial political rationality during the era of Indian indenture-ship in the Caribbean. In this essay the voyage of the Salsette from Calcutta to Trinidad in 1858 serves as an entry point into a broader conversation on the repeated archival invocation of care toward coolies during their passage to the plantation colonies. Care, which is synonymous with neither affect nor benevolence, refers to a series of techniques aimed at managing bodies traded for profit. Analyzing the apparatuses through which care for indentured servants was administered, the essay illuminates the racialized and caste-based knowledge systems that were mobilized to “make live” the reserve of potential labor force aboard. Concomitantly, it reads the colonial archive for moments in which indentured servants register their presence through their responses to being or refusal to be cared for and considers the stakes of such refusal for the colonial capitalist project.
Peasant Sensibility and the Structures of Feeling of “My People” in George Lamming’s In the Castle of My Skin
Authors: Nakamura Tohru
Published: June 2023

This essay argues that George Lamming’s In the Castle of My Skin presents an aesthetic quest into an alternative Caribbean subjecthood built on the capacity of feeling. Studying various dimensions of affectivity along with what Raymond Williams called “structures of feeling,” it examines the feeling of “my people” in its “dominant,” “residual,” and “emergent” dimensions. The author considers first how the dominant image of “my people” as “the enemy” gains consent from the characters and supports the hegemony of the ruling class. He then explores the African past illustrated in the haunted dream of Pa as the residual aspect of “my people” and the characters’ negative feelings toward it. Finally, taking Trumper’s Pan-African vision of “my people” as an emergent cultural form, the author analyzes how the novel shows the ways in which the form falls short of what Lamming identifies as “the peasant sensibility,” a Caribbean tradition of feeling toward the land.
Displacing Wij slaven van Suriname
Authors: Gomes da Cunha Olívia Maria
Published: June 2023

This essay seeks to speculate on the reception of de Anton de Kom’s Wij slaven van Suriname (1934) within a very different context of political debates on race; decolonization; the politics of solidarity; and internationalist and anticapitalist struggles—all themes that De Kom’s narrative tackles in unique ways—and on the question of time. The author attempts to displace De Kom’s book away from its entanglement of political and intellectual connections and toward the diverse temporalities of Suriname’s decolonial struggles, seeking to explore what could be called the “collateral effects” produced by the 1934 publication of Wij slaven by a Caribbean publisher and institution. The author then compares the 1981 Spanish translation of De Kom’s work, Nosotros, esclavos de Surinam, with a different set of debates and texts addressed to diverse audiences and subjects entangled in distinct networks of political engagements and projects.
Η βυζαντινή μικρή αριστοκρατία (1204-1328)
Authors: Σωτηρίου Αθανάσιος
Published: June 2023

Το Βυζάντιο αποτελούσε έναν ιεραρχημένο κοινωνικό σχηματισμό, όπου μια μικρή ομάδα προσώπων που συγκροτούσαν την κυρίαρχη τάξη συγκέντρωνε σημαντική πολιτική, κοινωνική και οικονομική ισχύ και ασκούσε εξουσία πάνω στη μεγάλη πλειοψηφία του πληθυσμού. Η μελέτη αυτής της τάξης είναι απαραίτητη για την κατανόηση των κοινωνικών αλλαγών που γνώρισε η βυζαντινή κοινωνία μέσα στην πορεία των αιώνων. Ωστόσο, η έρευνα για το ανώτερο κοινωνικό στρώμα του ύστερου Βυζαντίου (13ος-15ος αιώνας) είναι σχετικά περιορισμένη και εστιάζει κυρίως στις λίγες μεγάλες οικογένειες που σχημάτιζαν την «υψηλή αριστοκρατία», παραμελώντας τα κατώτερα στρώματα της κυρίαρχης τάξης. Η παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή ευελπιστεί να συνδράμει στο παραπάνω ζήτημα μέσα από τη συστηματική μελέτη του κατώτερου και μεσαίου στρώματος της βυζαντινής αριστοκρατίας κατά το πρώτο μισό της ύστερης βυζαντινής περιόδου (1204-1328). Για μεθοδολογικούς λόγους, η μελέτη επικεντρώνεται σε μια συγκεκριμένη κοινωνική ομάδα που ονομάζεται συμβατικά «μικρή αριστοκρατία». Η ομάδα αυτή περιλαμβάνει πρόσωπα που κατείχαν επίσημες αυτοκρατορικές διακρίσεις αλλά δεν προέρχονταν από τις τάξεις της υψηλής αριστοκρατίας. Σε αυτό το πλαίσιο, ο κορμός της διατριβής συγκροτείται από τρία κεφάλαια, στα οποία εξετάζονται αντίστοιχα οι φορείς του τιμητικού τίτλου του «σεβαστού», οι «οικείοι» των αυτοκρατόρων και οι κάτοχοι αυλικών οφφικίων. Στα τρία αυτά κεφάλαια παρουσιάζονται οι προσωπογραφικές πληροφορίες που συγκεντρώθηκαν από τη συστηματική αποδελτίωση των πηγών και διερευνάται η κοινωνική καταγωγή, η γεωγραφική κατανομή και η θέση των μικρών αριστοκρατών στον αυτοκρατορικό μηχανισμό. Παράλληλα, μέσα από μελέτες περιπτώσεων εξετάζεται η οικονομική τους βάση, τα οικογενειακά τους δίκτυα και η σταδιοδρομία τους. Τέλος, κάθε κεφάλαιο καταλήγει σε μια αποτίμηση της σύνθεσης, της εξέλιξης και των χαρακτηριστικών της κάθε ομάδας ενώ αναζητά και τον ρόλο που έπαιξαν τα μέλη της στο πολιτικό και διοικητικό σύστημα. Ύστερα από τη μελέτη των επιμέρους ομάδων, στη διατριβή ακολουθεί ένα τελευταίο κεφάλαιο στο οποίο διερευνάται η θέση των μικρών αριστοκρατών ως συνόλου στο υστεροβυζαντινό σύστημα εξουσίας. Μέσα από την ανάλυση του ρόλου τους στις βασικές πολιτικές εξελίξεις της περιόδου 1204-1328, εξετάζεται η πολιτική τους συμπεριφορά, οι σχέσεις τους με τον εκάστοτε αυτοκράτορα και η εμπλοκή τους στον ανταγωνισμό μεταξύ της αυτοκρατορικής εξουσίας και της υψηλής αριστοκρατίας. Παράλληλα, αναλύεται η στάση τους απέναντι στα στασιαστικά κινήματα της περιόδου καθώς επίσης και στα κεντρικά ζητήματα που απασχόλησαν τη βυζαντινή κοινωνία, όπως η Ένωση των Εκκλησιών, η προσέγγιση με τη Δύση και η αντιμετώπιση της τουρκικής απειλής. Τέλος, εξετάζεται και η πολιτική τους δράση κατά τον εμφύλιο των δύο Ανδρονίκων, προκειμένου να αναζητηθούν οι δυναμικές στο εσωτερικό της μικρής αριστοκρατίας και ο βαθμός στον οποίο τα μέλη της συγκροτούσαν μια ενιαία ομάδα.
Decision and prediction support in cyberphysical systems based on computational and machine learning tools
Authors: Χριστιάς Παναγιώτης
Published: June 2023

Οι σύγχρονες τάσεις τείνουν να εκμεταλλεύονται την αυξημένη υπολογιστική ισχύ για την ανάπτυξη κυβερνοφυσικών συστημάτων που θα υποστηρίζουν ή θα λαμβάνουν αποφάσεις σε πολύπλοκα προβλήματα. Αυτή η διατριβή επικεντρώνεται σε περιβαλλοντικά προβλήματα όπως η κατανάλωση ενέργειας και η διαχείριση των υδατικών πόρων και πώς τα αυτοματοποιημένα συστήματα μπορούν να συνδράμουν σε αποφάσεις και προβλέψεις που σχετίζονται με αυτά τα θέματα χρησιμοποιώντας σύγχρονες επιστημονικές μεθόδους όπως πιθανολογικά εργαλεία και εργαλεία μηχανικής μάθησης. Μία βασική εξέταση ήταν ότι η πίεση στα γεωργικά συστήματα αυξάνεται και η λειψυδρία αναμένεται να αποτελέσει σημαντικό περιορισμό για την αειφόρο ανάπτυξη τους. Η αύξηση της γεωργικής ζήτησης και της τιμής του νερού είναι πολύ ρεαλιστικά και σίγουρα θα επηρεάσουν το κέρδος, καθιστώντας τις προβλέψεις ακόμη πιο χρήσιμο εργαλείο στην αγροτική οικονομία. Τελικά, οι μεθοδολογίες μηχανικής δεδομένων και μηχανικής μάθησης θα λειτουργήσουν συνδυαστικά για να παράγουν αξιόπιστες προβλέψεις στον τομέα της γεωργίας όσον αφορά τη μεγιστοποίηση του εκτιμώμενου κέρδους της γεωργικής απόδοσης με παράλληλη διαφύλαξη και σωστή διαχείριση των υδατικών πόρων. Ο απώτατος στόχος αυτής της έρευνας είναι η ανάπτυξη ενός πλαισίου μηχανικής μάθησης που εκτελεί προβλέψεις απόδοσης των καλλιεργειών, είναι προσαρμοσμένο στις καλλιεργήσιμες εκτάσεις και ταυτόχρονα εστιάζει στη διατήρηση χαμηλών επιπέδων χρήσης υδατικών πόρων. Ο στόχος αυτού του πλαισίου είναι να λαμβάνει σύνολα δεδομένων που σχετίζονται με διάφορα χαρακτηριστικά των γεωργικών εκτάσεων και στη συνέχεια να μπορεί να προετοιμάζει και να αναλύει αυτά τα δεδομένα, να επιλέξει τα πιο χρήσιμα χαρακτηριστικά αφού εξετάσει τη συσχέτισή τους και τελικά να εργασθεί σε ένα σύνολο μεθόδων μηχανικής μάθησης για την εξαγωγή της καλύτερης δυνατής πρόβλεψης και τη βέλτιστη προσαρμογή στη φύση των δεδομένων.
Νέα δημόσια διοίκηση και σχολική εκπαίδευση
Authors: Ανδρικόπουλος Βασίλειος
Published: June 2023

Σκοπός της παρούσας διδακτορικής διατριβής ήταν η διερεύνηση των απόψεων των στελεχών εκπαιδευτικής διοίκησης στην Ελλάδα για τον ρόλο και τις αρμοδιότητές τους και για την εφαρμογή αρχών, μεθόδων και πρακτικών της Νέας Δημόσιας Διοίκησης στη διοίκηση της εκπαίδευσης στην Ελλάδα. Προς τούτο, εξετάστηκε ο λόγος περί Νέας Δημόσιας Διοίκησης και Νέας Δημόσιας Διακυβέρνησης, οι επιρροές των προσεγγίσεων αυτών στην εκπαιδευτική διοίκηση και διακυβέρνηση, καθώς και η διοίκηση της εκπαίδευσης στην Ελλάδα μέσα από το θεσμικό πλαίσιο και την ευρύτερη συζήτηση για τα οικεία ζητήματα. Στην εμπειρική έρευνα που διενεργήθηκε συμμετείχαν 99 Διευθυντές Πρωτοβάθμιας και Δευτεροβάθμιας Εκπαίδευσης με τη συμπλήρωση ανώνυμου ερωτηματολογίου διερευνητικού τύπου κατά το ακαδημαϊκό έτος 2020-2021. Για την επεξεργασία των δεδομένων έγινε χρήση των στατιστικών ελέγχων t-test και ANOVA, καθώς και παραγοντική ανάλυση με τη μέθοδο της ανάλυσης κύριων συνιστωσών, ενώ στα ποιοτικά δεδομένα που προέκυψαν από τις ερωτήσεις ανοικτής απάντησης εφαρμόστηκε επαγωγική θεματική ανάλυση. Η ανάλυση των δεδομένων αποκάλυψε πως η λειτουργία των στελεχών εκπαιδευτικής διοίκησης στην Ελλάδα έχει επηρεαστεί από τις διεθνείς τάσεις της Νέας Δημόσιας Διοίκησης. Παράλληλα, τα στελέχη εκπαιδευτικής διοίκησης υποστηρίζουν την εφαρμογή αρχών και μεθόδων της Νέας Δημόσιας Διοίκησης, όπως την εκπαιδευτική λογοδοσία, τη διοικητική αποκέντρωση και την ενίσχυση της αυτονομίας των σχολείων, αλλά και την αξιολόγηση του εκπαιδευτικού έργου, με γνώμονα κυρίως την σχολική και εκπαιδευτική βελτίωση. Oι απόψεις τους, ωστόσο, δεν έδειξαν να διαφοροποιούνται από δημογραφικούς παράγοντες, όπως το φύλο, τις σπουδές, τη διδακτική και διοικητική τους εμπειρία. Τέλος, οι συγκλίσεις που καταγράφηκαν φανερώνουν μια τάση εναρμόνισης με την εκπαιδευτική πολιτική και την εκπαιδευτική διοίκηση σε διεθνές επίπεδο, ενώ οι αποκλίσεις από τον διεθνή λόγο συμβάλλουν στην ανάδειξη και κατανόηση ειδικότερων πτυχών της διοίκησης της εκπαίδευσης στην Ελλάδα. Συμπερασματικά, η ανά χείρας διατριβή ανέδειξε τον κυρίαρχο ρόλο της Νέας Δημόσιας Διοίκησης και την επίδραση που αυτή ασκεί παγκοσμίως μέσα από την διερεύνηση των επιρροών της στη διοίκηση της σχολικής εκπαίδευσης στην Ελλάδα.
Οι σχέσεις της άρχουσας τάξης και της Ορθόδοξης Εκκλησίας με τον μουσουλμανικό κόσμο της Μ. Ασίας (1261-1453)
Authors: Πολίτη Ειρήνη
Published: June 2023

Οι σχέσεις της Βυζαντινής αυτοκρατορίας με το Ισλάμ κατά την Παλαιολόγεια περίοδο είναι ένα τεράστιο θέμα, το οποίο έχει αποτελέσει αντικείμενο μελέτης παλαιότερων και σύγχρονων ιστορικών. Μέσα στο χώρο αυτό, το ειδικότερο θέμα των σχέσεων της βυζαντινής άρχουσας τάξης και της Ορθόδοξης Εκκλησίας με τον ισλαμικό κόσμο της Μ. Ασίας κατά την ύστερη εποχή δεν έχει τύχει της δέουσας εμβάθυνσης. Στόχος αυτής της διατριβής είναι η ανάδειξη των ποικίλων μορφών προσέγγισης του ισλαμικού κόσμου της Μ. Ασίας από την κοσμική ελίτ και τους εκπροσώπους της Ορθοδοξίας, οι οποίες εξελίσσονταν ανάλογα με την εξωτερική πολιτική της Βυζαντινής αυτοκρατορίας και τα εκάστοτε συμφέροντα. Οι σχέσεις αυτές από τα μέσα του 13ου αιώνα ως το 1453 αιώνα δεν εμφανίζονταν a priori εχθρικές αντικατοπτρίζοντας με τον τρόπο αυτό τον βαθύ διχασμό της βυζαντινής κοινωνίας που παρέμεινε αγεφύρωτος ως την πτώση της Κωνσταντινούπολης.Μέσα από την κατηγοριοποίηση των απόψεων της άρχουσας τάξης εξάγονται τα πορίσματα της διατριβής σχετικά με τους πολύπλοκους βυζαντινο-τουρκικούς συσχετισμούς. Αυτή η κατηγοριοποίηση έγινε βάσει του πολιτικού-ιδεολογικού προσανατολισμού των μελών της που μεταφραζόταν κατά κύριο λόγο σε ενωτικούς και ανθενωτικούς χωρίς αυτό να σημαίνει πως οι ιδεολογικές κατευθύνσεις τους συμπορεύονταν πάντα με τις πράξεις τους. Γι’ αυτό άλλωστε και εξετάστηκαν περιπτώσεις ακραιφνών εχθρών του μουσουλμανικού στοιχείου (τουλάχιστον σε θεολογικό πλαίσιο) όπως διαφόρων εκκλησιαστικών παραγόντων, οι οποίοι συνεργάζονταν με τους Τούρκους. Κοινή παράμετρος του συνόλου των κειμένων της ύστερης βυζαντινής περιόδου ήταν η προβολή της διαχρονικής βαρβαρότητας της τουρκικής πλευράς. Η εκδήλωση της βαρβαρότητας αυτής αφορούσε κυρίως τα πεπραγμένα των Τουρκομάνων και των διαδόχων τους, των Οθωμανών, κατά τη συνεχή παρουσία τους στα βυζαντινά εδάφη. Αντίθετα, η σύμπραξη με τους Σελτζούκους του Ικονίου είχε ως επί το πλείστον θετικό πρόσημο για τους Βυζαντινούς στην Παλαιολόγεια περίοδο. Πλοηγοί για την παρούσα μελέτη υπήρξαν οι εξαιρετικά πλούσιες σε πληροφορίες πηγές της εποχής (ιστορικά έργα, δημόσια και ιδιωτικά έγγραφα, επιστολές, ομιλίες, θεολογικές πραγματείες, βίοι αγίων κ.τ.λ.), σε συνδυασμό με την συνεχώς εμπλουτιζόμενη γύρω από το θέμα αυτό βιβλιογραφία.
Persistent diurnal enuresis in a 6-year-old boy after bilateral ureteroneocystostomy
Authors: Szawłoga Tomasz , Orzechowska Aleksandra , Sobieszczańska-Droździel Aleksandra
Published: June 2023

Urinary incontinence is one of the most common symptoms in children and adolescents. Due to numerous causes, a thorough examination is necessary. We present a case of a 6-year-old boy with diurnal enuresis, who was admitted to our Department for further treatment after the procedure of bilateral ureteroneocystostomy due to suspected bilateral ureter stenosis. With the persistence of the incontinence, our examination revealed a posterior urethral valve which was incised and the symptoms subsided.
Roman Prostitution Through Plautus’ Theatre
Authors: Morales María Teresa de Luque
Published: June 2023

The main issue addressed in this paper is the study of the prostitution business in the mid-Republican period from the point of view of theatre. Theatre appeared in Rome in 240 BC, and, from that time on, we find plays that are of great value to our understanding of the Roman society of this period. For this reason, we will focus on the comedies of Plautus, representing the genre of the fabula palliata. By taking this documentation as a basis, one can analyse the role of prostitutes and procurers in his comedies, on whom we are given extensive information through humour. Despite possible exaggerations, the models used by the author allow us to approach the reality of that period (the end of the 3rd and the 2nd century BC).
Evidence from a Nabataean Inscription Regarding Water and Cult in Nabataea, with Some Remarks on the Nabataean Royal Family
Authors: Al-Salameen Zeyad , Schmitt-Korte Karl
Published: June 2023

The article presents a Nabataean text inscribed in raised relief on a bronze plate and dated to the seventh year of the Nabataean king Aretas IV (3 BC). The text is significant since it mentions the dedication of a water well/cistern by Aretas, to his god Dushara, the God of Gaia “for the life of himself and his wife ḥldw, queen of the Nabataeans, and their daughter pṣʾl.” The paper includes a commentary on the vocabulary of the text and sheds some light on water and its association with the cult in Nabataea. In addition, it provides some details about ḥldw, queen of the Nabataeans and pṣʾl, the daughter of Aretas and ḥldw, allowing an update of the Nabataean royal family tree.
Female paramedics' attitudes towards career progression in the ambulance service
Authors: Ulrich Alexandra , Williams Julia , Clarke Vince
Published: June 2023

Background:

Women's historic under-representation in paramedic roles in the London Ambulance Service (LAS) has recently improved, and women and men are equally represented in paramedic roles. However, the gender balance of advanced paramedic practitioners in critical care in the LAS remains unequal, with women constituting only 15.1% of this group.

Aims:

This study aimed to gather the views of female paramedics to gain some insight into potential reasons for this under-representation.

Methods:

A feminist pragmatic approach was taken. Qualitative, open-ended surveys were distributed via internal social media and bulletins. These surveys underwent primary thematic analysis to generate lines of enquiry that informed semi-structured interview questions. The questions were then posed to a maximum variation, purposeful sample of six women from the LAS. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed.

Findings:

Ninety-four women responded to the survey; six were sampled for interviews. The women varied by experience, clinical grade, age, work location and societal factors, including whether they were mothers and the number of children they had. A main overarching theme was ‘social construction of women and career progression within the ambulance service’. This was informed by three interrelated subthemes of ‘caregiving lifestyle’, ‘perceptions of self’ and ‘gender stereotypes’.

Conclusion:

Women in the ambulance service have unique challenges that mirror those in wider society. Social constructs may impose unconscious bias and pressures that prevent women from advancing. Organisational structures and the cultural norms of the LAS may require adapting to improve the gender balance of the workforce and therefore the service it delivers.
Introduction
Authors: Hughes Ciaran , Ketola Markus
Published: June 2023

The introduction sets the scene for the chapters that follow, focusing on the aims and key questions that informed the research. It provides an overview of the subsequent chapters before commenting on the current size and shape of the voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland and outlining the data collection that underpins the book. The final sections locate the book within the key themes of neoliberalism and governance.
Independence of voice, purpose and action
Authors: Hughes Ciaran , Ketola Markus
Published: June 2023

In this chapter we explore how the enrolment of the voluntary and community sector into neoliberal governance projects, and the more recent changes in the government-sector relationship, has raised questions about the independence of the sector. Framed around the idea of independence of voice, purpose and action, we explore the role and nature of the sector in this changing policy and financial environment. We will see how, in relation to ideas surrounding freedom of purpose and action, there are questions around the ability of organisations to remain true to their mission and values in an increasingly competitive and instrumental funding environment. We will see that this has consequences for organisational ‘independence of voice’, for in a context where an organisation’s existence is increasingly defined by financial dependency and their service delivery role, there is limited scope for more antagonistic campaigning practices.
X-ray micro-beam characterization of an elastically bent thin diamond plate for x-ray optics applications
Authors: Polyakov S. N. , Digurov R. V. , Martyushov S. Yu. , Terentiev S. A. , Blank V. D.
Published: June 2023

Insufficient information on the diffraction and energy-dispersion properties of elastically bent diamond limits its range of application in X-ray optics. Laue micro-beam diffraction has excellent potential for studying these properties. With this method, we explained the origin of the Laue spots asterism, calculated the strain–stress fields generated due to the bending of the diamond plate, and determined the bending radius in situ with high accuracy. The method can be used to control the dispersion characteristics of bent plates by changing the x-ray beam diameter or bending radius. Important conclusions are drawn for practical application of bent diamonds.
Babinet-complementary structures for implementation of pseudospin-polarized waveguides
Authors: Ahmadi Haddi , Khavasi Amin
Published: June 2023

In this work, a theorem is proved stating that in various types of waveguides with mirror reflection symmetries, the electromagnetic duality correspondence between eigenmodes of complementary structures induces counterpropagating spin-polarized states. The mirror reflection symmetries may be preserved around one or more arbitrary planes. Pseudospin-polarized waveguides supporting one-way states manifest robustness. This is similar to topologically non-trivial direction-dependent states guided by photonic topological insulators. Nevertheless, a remarkable aspect of our structures is that they can be implemented in extremely broad bandwidth by simply using complementary structures. Based on our theory, the concept of the pseudospin polarized waveguide can be realized using dual impedance surfaces ranging from microwave to optical regime. Consequently, there is no need to employ bulk electromagnetic materials to suppress backscattering in waveguiding structures. This also includes pseudospin-polarized waveguides with perfect electric conductor-perfect magnetic conductor boundaries where the boundary conditions limit the bandwidth of waveguides. We design and develop various unidirectional systems and the spin-filtered feature in the microwave regime is further investigated.
Reconstruction of spectral irradiance in a real application with a multi-channel spectral sensor using convolutional neural networks
Authors: Myland Paul , Babilon Sebastian , Hegemann Tim , Klir Stefan , Khanh Tran Quoc
Published: June 2023

Lighting is not only a key mediator for the perception of the architectural space but also plays a crucial role regarding the long-term well-being of its human occupants. Future lighting solutions must therefore be capable of monitoring lighting parameters to allow for a dynamic compensation of temporal changes from the optimal or intended conditions. Although mostly based on synthetic data, previous studies adopting small, low-cost, multi-band color sensors for this kind of parameter estimation have reported some promising preliminary results. Building up on these findings, the present work introduces a new methodology for estimating the absolute spectral irradiances of real-world lighting scenarios from the responses of a 10-channel spectral sensor by using a convolutional neural network approach. The lighting scenarios considered here are based on a tunable white floor lamp system set up at three different indoor locations and comprise combinations of LED, fluorescent, tungsten, and daylight lighting conditions. For white light mixtures of the various spectral components, the proposed reconstruction methodology yields estimates of the spectral power distribution with an average root-mean-square error of 1.6%, an average Δu′v′ of less than 0.001, and an average illuminance accuracy of 2.7%. Sensor metamerism is discussed as a limiting factor for the achievable spectral reconstruction accuracy with certain light mixtures.
Interferometer response characterization algorithm for multi-aperture Fabry-Perot imaging spectrometers
Authors: Picone Daniele , Gousset Silvère , Dalla Mura Mauro , Ferrec Yann , le Coarer Etienne
Published: June 2023

In recent years, the demand for hyperspectral imaging devices has grown significantly, driven by their ability of capturing high-resolution spectral information. Among the several possible optical designs for acquiring hyperspectral images, there is a growing interest in interferometric spectral imaging systems based on division of aperture. These systems have the advantage of capturing snapshot acquisitions while maintaining a compact design. However, they require a careful calibration to operate properly. In this work, we present the interferometer response characterization algorithm (IRCA), a robust three-step procedure designed to characterize the transmittance response of multi-aperture imaging spectrometers based on the interferometry of Fabry-Perot. Additionally, we propose a formulation of the image formation model for such devices suitable to estimate the parameters of interest by considering the model under various regimes of finesse. The proposed algorithm processes the image output obtained from a set of monochromatic light sources and refines the results using nonlinear regression after an ad-hoc initialization. Through experimental analysis conducted on four different prototypes from the Image SPectrometer On Chip (ImSPOC) family, we validate the performance of our approach for characterization. The associated source code for this paper is available from Zenodo (http://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7978514).
Bidirectional planar absorber with polarization-selective absorption and transmission capabilities
Authors: Hsun Chun-Hao , Chen Fu-Chiarng
Published: June 2023

In this study, we developed a novel planar bidirectional perfect metamaterial absorber (PMA) with polarization-selective absorption and transmission capabilities. The proposed structure can bidirectionally absorb x-polarized incident waves almost perfectly while functioning as a transparent surface for y-polarized incident waves at the same frequency. We discussed the performance and properties of the proposed PMA through simulation results and a theoretical model. We also used the free-space method in experimental tests of a fabricated sample. The results indicated fair consistency between the simulated and measured results, thereby validating the quality of our PMA design.
Nurse-led telerehabilitation intervention to improve stroke efficacy: Protocol for a pilot randomized feasibility trial
Authors: Osei Stephanopoulos Kofi Junior , Adomako – Bempah Emmanuella , Yeboah Adelaide Appiah , Owiredu Lawrence Akuamoah , Ohene Lillian Akorfa
Published: June 2023

Background

The prevalence of stroke continues to rise in low-middle income countries. The continual rise in stroke cases and increasing prevalence on post-acute needs represent a crucial call for increased accessibility and utilization of rehabilitation services.

Aim

The primary objective of the study is to test the feasibility of a nurse-led telerehabilitation intervention in improving self-efficacy among stroke survivors. The findings of the trial are intended for use in a future larger study.

Methods

Participants would be recruited at the University of Ghana Hospital and randomized into an intervention group and a control group. Participants aged ≥ 18 years, diagnosed of stroke at most 12months prior the recruitment and requiring moderate level of assistance would be considered for eligibility. Participants in the intervention group will receive individualized and comprehensive nurse-led rehabilitation therapies in physical, emotional, cognitive and nursing education domains for 6 months, in addition to treatment as usual (TAU). The control group will only receive treatment as usual. Follow-up evaluations will occur immediately, 30 days and 90 days after the intervention.

Discussion

Providing stroke rehabilitation services in low-resource settings presents a significant challenge due to limited infrastructure and a lack of trained healthcare professionals. The current study has the potential of contributing to the growing body of evidence on the impact of telerehabilitation services in mitigating these challenges in low-resource settings.

Trial registration

PACTR202210685104862, Pan African Clinical Trial Registry.
Interventions to increase cervical screening uptake among immigrant women: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Alam Zufishan , Cairns Joanne Marie , Scott Marissa , Dean Judith Ann , Janda Monika
Published: June 2023

Numerous intervention studies have attempted to increase cervical screening uptake among immigrant women, nonetheless their screening participation remains low. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarise the evidence on interventions to improve cervical screening among immigrant women globally and identify their effectiveness. Databases PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, PsycINFO, ERIC, CINAHL and CENTRAL were systematically searched from inception to October 12, 2021, for intervention studies, including randomised and clinical controlled trials (RCT, CCT) and one and two group pre-post studies. Peer-reviewed studies involving immigrant and refugee women, in community and clinical settings, were eligible. Comparator interventions were usual or minimal care or attention control. Data extraction, quality appraisal and risk of bias were assessed by two authors independently using COVIDENCE software. Narrative synthesis of findings was carried out, with the main outcome measure defined as the cervical screening uptake rate difference pre- and post-intervention followed by random effects meta-analysis of trials and two group pre-post studies, using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software, to calculate pooled rate ratios and adjustment for publication bias, where found. The protocol followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered prospectively with PROSPERO (CRD42020192341). 1,900 studies were identified, of which 42 (21 RCTS, 4 CCTs, and 16 pre-post studies) with 44,224 participants, were included in the systematic review, and 28 with 35,495 participants in the meta-analysis. Overall, the uptake difference rate for interventions ranged from -6.7 to 96%. Meta-analysis demonstrated a pooled rate ratio of 1.15 (95% CI 1.03–1.29), with high heterogeneity. Culturally sensitive, multicomponent interventions, using different modes of information delivery and self-sampling modality were most promising. Interventions led to at least 15% increase in cervical screening participation among immigrant women. Interventions designed to overcome logistical barriers and use multiple channels to communicate culturally appropriate health promotion messages are most effective at achieving cervical screening uptake among immigrant women.
Integral assays of hemostasis in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 on admission and during heparin thromboprophylaxis
Authors: Bulanov Andrey Y. , Bulanova Ekaterina L. , Simarova Irina B. , Bovt Elizaveta A. , Eliseeva Olesya O. , Shakhidzhanov Soslan S. , Panteleev Mikhail A. , Roumiantsev Aleksandr G. , Ataullakhanov Fazoil I. , Karamzin Sergey S.
Published: June 2023

Background

Blood coagulation abnormalities play a major role in COVID-19 pathophysiology. However, the specific details of hypercoagulation and anticoagulation treatment require investigation. The aim of this study was to investigate the status of the coagulation system by means of integral and local clotting assays in COVID-19 patients on admission to the hospital and in hospitalized COVID-19 patients receiving heparin thromboprophylaxis.

Methods

Thrombodynamics (TD), thromboelastography (TEG), and standard clotting assays were performed in 153 COVID-19 patients observed in a hospital setting. All patients receiving treatment, except extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) patients (n = 108), were administered therapeutic doses of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) depending on body weight. The ECMO patients (n = 15) were administered unfractionated heparin (UFH).

Results

On admission, the patients (n = 30) had extreme hypercoagulation by all integral assays: TD showed hypercoagulation in ~75% of patients, while TEG showed hypercoagulation in ~50% of patients. The patients receiving treatment showed a significant heparin response based on TD; 77% of measurements were in the hypocoagulation range, 15% were normal, and 8% remained in hypercoagulation. TEG showed less of a response to heparin: 24% of measurements were in the hypocoagulation range, 59% were normal and 17% remained in hypercoagulation. While hypocoagulation is likely due to heparin treatment, remaining in significant hypercoagulation may indicate insufficient anticoagulation for some patients, which is in agreement with our clinical findings. There were 3 study patients with registered thrombosis episodes, and all were outside the target range for TD parameters typical for effective thromboprophylaxis (1 patient was in weak hypocoagulation, atypical for the LMWH dose used, and 2 patients remained in the hypercoagulation range despite therapeutic LMWH doses).

Conclusion

Patients with COVID-19 have severe hypercoagulation, which persists in some patients receiving anticoagulation treatment, while significant hypocoagulation is observed in others. The data suggest critical issues of hemostasis balance in these patients and indicate the potential importance of integral assays in its control.
Effect of the axial load on the dynamic response of the wrapped CFRP reinforced concrete column under the asymmetrical lateral impact load
Authors: AL-Bukhaiti Khalil , Yanhui Liu , Shichun Zhao , Abas Hussein , Daguang Han , Nan Xu , Lang Yang , Xing Yu Yan
Published: June 2023

This study investigated the impact of axial load on the dynamic response of reinforced concrete (RC) members to asymmetrical lateral impact loads. A series of asymmetrical-span impact tests were conducted on circular and square RC members with and without Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers (CFRP) while varying the axial compression ratios. The impact process was simulated using ABAQUS software, and the time history curves of deflection and impact were measured. The study found that specific impact loads caused bending and shearing failures. The axial compression ratio ranged from 0.05 to 0.13 when the impact curve reached its maximum deflection before the component’s impact resistance decreased. Analysis of the impact point and inclined crack location revealed that axial load affects the maximum local concrete. The speed of inclined crack penetration and inclined cracks take longer to form, with weaker resistance to damage to local concrete when the axial compression ratio is between 0.05 and 0.13. When the axial compression ratio is greater than 0.13, inclined cracks form sooner with more brittle and severe damage to the impact point’s concrete. The study also identified key parameters affecting the dynamic response of RC members, including impact height, CFRP layer thickness, axial force, and impact location. Thicker CFRP layers in RC can improve impact resistance, especially when the impact location is farther from the center. However, there is a limit to the impact of axial force on this resistance.