bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Antibiotic Treatment for Urinary Tract Infections Secondary to Escherichia coli in Elderly Diabetic Patients: Considering Age and Blood Glucose Control
Authors: Yi Baozhu , Xu Xiaowei , Lin Zhendong , He Youhua , Wang Shuaibin
Published: September 2024

Introduction: This study aimed to examine the susceptibility profile of Escherichia coli in urinary tract infections (UTIs) among elderly diabetic patients to support judicious and evidence-based antibiotic use. Methods: From January 2021 to December 2022, urine culture results were analyzed to determine the distribution of pathogens, especially E. coli, and their drug susceptibility. Results: E. coli infection was the most prevalent infection in elderly diabetic patients with UTIs, accounting for 32.6% of cases. Moreover, this bacterium’s multiple resistance rate (38.3%) was significantly higher than other bacteria’s multiple resistance rate (χ2 = 81.644, p < 0.05). Compared to older diabetic patients with optimal glucose control (HbA1c ≤7.0%), patients with poor glycemic control (HbA1c >7.0%) had lower resistance rates to lactams, and urine pH values were higher (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The most common cause of UTIs is E. coli, with advanced age and diabetes being the main risk factors. To optimize UTI treatment safety and efficacy, antibiotics should be administered based on the patient’s age and blood glucose control.
Gender, Leadership and Career Advancement in Higher Education Institutions in Nigeria and Ghana
Authors: Olutayo Molatokunbo A.S.
Published: September 2024

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in most societies globally are perceived to be structured in an imbalanced way, such that one gender is of advantage over the other, most times the male gender. Extant research on gender and leadership has been criticised on different grounds, such as including a one-sided focus, the lack of gendered perspectives, and a neglect of structural, cultural and historical factors in research. This study interrogates the notion that the HEIs are gendered; examines the factors answerable for gender disparities in leadership positions in the selected universities in Nigeria and Ghana; and identifies ways leadership affects each gender’s career advancement in the selected institutions. The qualitative research method was adopted to elicit information from purposely selected men and women, who have held leadership positions, and those who aspired, but were denied in the selected universities. The study utilises the in-depth and key informant interview techniques. It concludes that women still remain under-represented in most male dominated higher education decision making positions, as a result of the institutional climate which does not give adequate room for gender equality and inclusiveness.
Prognostic Value of Easy Albumin-Bilirubin Score for Radical Surgery in Patients With Gallbladder Carcinoma
Authors: Xu Ming , Deng Chuanmin , Zhang Yanfang , Man Zhongran , Yang Song , Xu Song
Published: September 2024

Background

To investigate the clinical significance of the easy albumin-bilirubin (EZ-ALBI) score as a prognostic indicator in postoperative patients with gallbladder carcinoma (GBC).

Methods

The comprehensive clinical and pathological records of 140 patients with GBC who underwent radical resection between January 2015 and December 2020 were retrospectively examined. Based on the EZ-ALBI score, the 140 GBC patients were categorized into two groups: a low EZ-ALBI score group (score ≤ −34.4) consisting of 108 patients and a high EZ-ALBI score group (score > −34.4) consisting of 32 patients. The association between the EZ-ALBI score and clinicopathological factors was assessed. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method, and the Cox proportional hazard model was utilized to evaluate the impact of clinicopathological factors on prognosis.

Results

Significant differences were observed between the low EZ-ALBI score group and the high EZ-ALBI score group in terms of serum total bilirubin, serum albumin, CA19-9 levels, liver metastasis, and tumor TNM stage. The 5-year survival rate was significantly lower in the high EZ-ALBI score group compared to the low EZ-ALBI score group. Univariate analysis indicated that serum total bilirubin, lymph node metastasis, TNM stage, and EZ-ALBI score were closely related to overall survival (OS). Multivariate analysis identified TNM stage and EZ-ALBI score as independent prognostic factors for OS.

Conclusions

The EZ-ALBI score is a significant independent prognostic factor for overall survival in GBC patient’s post-radical resection, highlighting its potential utility in clinical prognosis and patient management.
Numerical simulation and structural optimization of forced convection oven
Authors: Yan Zhen , Chen Hao , Dai Wan , Bie YuFeng , Zheng Zhu , Li Chao , Chen YunFei , Chen Mo , Zhang Yan
Published: September 2024

Temperature uniformity is a fundamental parameter for a forced convection oven to guarantee food baking quality. In this study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation is employed to analyze the air flow and heat transfer within a forced convection oven. Subsequent experimental measurements were conducted to explore the temperature variations inside the oven. The maximum deviation between the numerical simulation results and the experimental data was 2.70%, demonstrating the high accuracy of the simulation model. Based on the established simulation model, we can meticulously investigate the impact of fan structures on the airflow and temperature fields. Carefully designing the fan structure can significantly enhance temperature uniformity across the oven’s baking racks, reducing the standard deviation of temperatures on the second and third baking racks from 5.46°C and 6.69°C to 2.26°C and 2.46°C, respectively. This study provides a robust design strategy for forced convection ovens, yielding tangible benefits for practical application and market competitiveness.
Criticality of Nursing Care for Patients With Alzheimer’s Disease in the ICU: Insights From MIMIC III Dataset
Authors: Yan Zhou , Quan Guo , Jia-Hui Xue
Published: September 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) exhibit varying survival outcomes due to the unique challenges in managing AD patients. Stratifying patient mortality risk and understanding the criticality of nursing care are important to improve the clinical outcomes of AD patients. This study aimed to leverage machine learning (ML) and electronic health records (EHRs) only consisting of demographics, disease history, and routine lab tests, with a focus on nursing care, to facilitate the optimization of nursing practices for AD patients. We utilized Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care III, an open-source EHR dataset, and AD patients were identified based on the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes. From a cohort of 453 patients, a total of 60 features, encompassing demographics, laboratory tests, disease history, and number of nursing events, were extracted. ML models, including XGBoost, random forest, logistic regression, and multi-layer perceptron, were trained to predict the 30-day mortality risk. In addition, the influence of nursing care was analyzed in terms of feature importance using values calculated from both the inherent XGBoost module and the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) library. XGBoost emerged as the lead model with a high accuracy of 0.730, area under the curve (AUC) of 0.750, sensitivity of 0.688, and specificity of 0.740. Feature importance analyses using inherent XGBoost module or SHAP both indicated the number of nursing care within 14 days post-admission as an important denominator for 30-day mortality risk. When nursing care events were excluded as a feature, stratifying patient mortality risk was also possible but the model’s AUC of receiver operating characteristic curve was reduced to 0.68. Nursing care plays a pivotal role in the survival outcomes of AD patients in ICUs. ML models can be effectively employed to predict mortality risks and underscore the importance of specific features, including nursing care, in patient outcomes. Early identification of high-risk AD patients can aid in prioritizing intensive nursing care, potentially improving survival rates.
Does the calcar femorale affect the position of uncemented short stems?
Authors: Weidner Jan , Wyatt Michael , Beck Martin
Published: September 2024

Background and purpose:

Metaphyseal-stabilised short stems rely on sufficient metaphyseal fixation and are inserted by following the medial cortex. This type of stem is used extensively in our institution, and we observed on occasion unintended implant positioning with an increased distance between the implant and the medial cortex. A bony structure within the proximal femur which was first described in 1874 and named the calcar femorale, coincides with this phenomenon. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the calcar femorale on the position of a metaphyseal-stabilised short stem.

Patients and methods:

The frequency of cases with an increased distance between medial cortex and the implanted short stem was analysed in 52 consecutive patients. Additionally, we performed an anatomical CT study with 60 cadaveric femora to obtain more detailed information on the anatomy of the calcar femorale. Detailed measurements regarding the calcar femorale and its relationship to the proximal femur were obtained. From this, we derived implications for the implantation of a short stem prosthesis.

Results:

In 50% of all cases, we found an increased gap between the stem and the medial cortex. An increased gap did not significantly affect stem size, position, or subsidence rate, but in cases with an increased gap we found fewer stems with a radiologically optimum fit. The calcar could be identified in all 60 cadavers. The calcar femorale angle showed a high correlation with the mechanical antetorsion (0.87, p = 0.02) and the functional antetorsion (0.86, p = 0.05) of the femur.

Conclusions:

The calcar femorale is a consistent anatomical structure which may be the cause for an increased gap medial to the short stem in 50% of our cases. It limits the intramedullary space and influences both stem size and orientation. The CF angle which correlates with femoral antetorsion may influence the anteversion of the stem.
Affective Responsivity to Daily Stressors is Amplified in Young Females
Authors: Darling Ashley M. , Lee Sun Ah , Mogle Jacqueline , Saunders Erika F. H. , Almeida David M. , Greaney Jody L.
Published: September 2024

Despite mounting evidence that young adults experience greater exposure and affective responsivity to daily stressors than middle-aged and older adults, few studies have examined potential sex differences in these daily stress processes in young adults. We tested the hypotheses that young women would experience (1) a greater percentage of days with at least one daily stressor event and (2) exaggerated negative and positive affective responsivity to daily stressors compared to young men. Young adults ( n = 215) completed a daily web-based interview for eight consecutive days to assess multiple dynamic aspects of daily stress processes. Women experienced a greater frequency of daily stressor days. Further, the magnitude of the difference in both negative and positive affect between stressor-free and stressor days were greater in young women compared to young men. Greater exposure and amplified affective responsivity to daily stressors may potentially contribute to increased susceptibility to adverse psychological outcomes in young women.
Conducting two evidence syntheses in six weeks – experiences with and evaluation of a pilot project
Authors: Ames Heather Melanie R. , Kornør Hege , Evensen Line Holtet , Lidal Ingeborg Beate , Hafstad Elisabet , Hestevik Christine Hillestad , Jardim Patricia Sofia Jacobsen , Hval Gyri
Published: September 2024

Background

Evidence synthesis organisations are trying to meet commissioners’ needs for rapid responses to their evidence synthesis commissions. In this project we piloted an intensive process, working to complete evidence syntheses within six-weeks, rather than the standard lead time of 4–6 months. Our objective was to explore how researchers experience working intensively, identify barriers and facilitators, and determine how a more intensive approach to evidence synthesis could be more systematically introduced in the future.

Methods

In a pre-planning phase, an intensive work group was established, and two commissions were selected for this pilot project. The evidence synthesis process was divided into two phases: planning and intensive. The planning phase, involved scheduling the intensive phase, exploring new digital tools, and identifying peer reviewers. The intensive phase encompassed the entire evidence synthesis process. Two review teams were formed, each with a team lead supported by a process lead and leadership contact point. Throughout the project, teams engaged in reflective meetings to evaluate and adjust processes as needed.

Results

During the planning phase, teams identified significant uncertainties regarding scopes, research questions, and inclusion criteria. To address this, they engaged with commissioners earlier than originally planned, clarified these aspects, and prepared protocols. Despite some minor deviations from the original plan, both reviews were completed on schedule, with one team expanding their scope due to the absence of eligible studies. Teams operated flexibly, held regular meetings, and found the process seamless due to fewer interruptions. Machine learning tools facilitated rapid study selection. The process lead role, created to guide and evaluate the project, proved beneficial, providing structure and support, although clearer role delineation with the leadership contact point could have improved efficiency.

Conclusions

Overall, the intensive process fostered focus and productivity, allowing teams to manage short-term deliverables effectively. The researchers preferred working intensively with one evidence synthesis over being involved with many projects at the same time. They felt that time use was more effective, and they were able to complete the tasks in a focused way. However, there are several implications that should be considered before implementing an intensive approach in future evidence syntheses.
The application value of support vector machine model based on multimodal MRI in predicting IDH-1mutation and Ki-67 expression in glioma
Authors: Liang He-Xin , Wang Zong-Ying , Li Yao , Ren An-Ning , Chen Zhi-Feng , Wang Xi-Zhen , Wang Xi-Ming , Yuan Zhen-Guo
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To investigate the application value of support vector machine (SVM) model based on diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) and amide proton transfer- weighted (APTW) imaging in predicting isocitrate dehydrogenase 1(IDH-1) mutation and Ki-67 expression in glioma.

Methods

The DWI, DCE and APTW images of 309 patients with glioma confirmed by pathology were retrospectively analyzed and divided into the IDH-1 group (IDH-1(+) group and IDH-1(-) group) and Ki-67 group (low expression group (Ki-67 ≤ 10%) and high expression group (Ki-67 > 10%)). All cases were divided into the training set, and validation set according to the ratio of 7:3. The training set was used to select features and establish machine learning models. The SVM model was established with the data after feature selection. Four single sequence models and one combined model were established in IDH-1 group and Ki-67 group. The receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the model. Validation set data was used for further validation.

Results

Both in the IDH-1 group and Ki-67 group, the combined model had better predictive efficiency than single sequence model, although the single sequence model had a better predictive efficiency. In the Ki-67 group, the combined model was built from six selected radiomics features, and the AUC were 0.965 and 0.931 in the training and validation sets, respectively. In the IDH-1 group, the combined model was built from four selected radiomics features, and the AUC were 0.997 and 0.967 in the training and validation sets, respectively.

Conclusion

The radiomics model established by DWI, DCE and APTW images could be used to detect IDH-1 mutation and Ki-67 expression in glioma patients before surgery. The prediction performance of the radiomics model based on the combination sequence was better than that of the single sequence model.
Stores Licensing Scheme in remote Indigenous communities of the Northern Territory, Australia: a meta-evaluation
Authors: Howes Sophie K. , van Burgel Emma , Cubillo Beau , Connally Sarah , Ferguson Megan , Brimblecombe Julie
Published: September 2024

A form of food retail regulation called the Stores Licensing Scheme was introduced by the Australian Government in 2007–2022 to ensure food security in remote Indigenous communities of the Northern Territory. We examined evaluations of this Scheme implemented under the Northern Territory National Emergency Response and Stronger Futures Northern Territory Acts. Grey literature search identified nine primary source evaluations. Reported outcomes were extracted and thematic analysis utilised to determine barriers and enablers. Outcomes included improved availability and quality of groceries, financial structures, and retail practices, albeit not consistently reported. Governance and food cost were perceived barriers. Future policy aimed to improve food security through community stores should consider food cost subsidy, measures to incentivise all stores to improve standards, and improved governance arrangements enabling self-determination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Store Directors.
Extracellular vesicles from highly invasive melanoma subpopulations increase the invasive capacity of less invasive melanoma cells through mir-1246-mediated inhibition of CCNG2
Authors: Kingreen Tim , Kewitz-Hempel Stefanie , Rohde Christian , Hause Gerd , Sunderkötter Cord , Gerloff Dennis
Published: September 2024

Invasive growth is a critical process in tumor progression, requiring the activation of various molecular processes in tumor cells at the invasive front. Intercellular communication between heterogeneous tumor cells enhances cellular activation and adaptation to specific microenvironments. One mechanism of intercellular communication is the delivery of miRNAs through tumor cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs). In this context we have observed that conditioned media from a highly invasive cell subpopulation (BLM-HI) enhances the invasive capacity of the parental cell line (BLM). Therefore, we hypothesized that this complex change of cellular behavior is influenced by EV-transported miRNAs. The treatment of BLM cells with EVs derived from BLM-HI cells resulted in a significantly enhanced invasive capacity, as observed in Matrigel-embedded spheroids and in 2D Boyden chamber assays, with a dose-dependent effect. Conversely, the invasive capacity of BLM cells was reduced when secretion of EVs was inhibited by a sphingomyelinase inhibitor. To investigate the molecular mechanisms behind this effect, we performed next-generation sequencing and identified an enrichment of miR-1246 in these EVs. In functional analyses we demonstrated that both the EV mediated delivery of miR-1246 as well as overexpression contributes to the enhanced invasiveness of BLM cells. We identified a binding site of miR-1246 in the 3’UTR of cyclin G2 (CCNG2) and demonstrated direct binding by a luciferase reporter assay.

Increased expression of CCNG2 has been associated with cancer metastasis and poor patient outcomes in other malignancies. Our study demonstrates that intercellular communication contributes to the transfer of properties, such as increased invasive capacity, between heterogeneous melanoma cells via EV-transported miRNAs.
Rapid UV-Vis spectrophotometric method aided by firefly-PLS models for the simultaneous quantification of ciprofloxacin, lomefloxacin, and enrofloxacin in their laboratory mixture, dosage forms and water samples: greenness and blueness assessment
Authors: Alqahtani Ali , Alqahtani Taha , Al Fatease Adel , Tolba Enas H.
Published: September 2024

Herein, a novel UV spectrophotometric method coupled with chemometric tools was developed for the simultaneous determination of three fluoroquinolone antibiotics: ciprofloxacin, lomefloxacin, and enrofloxacin. Such integration of UV spectroscopy and chemometric analysis proved to be a simple, rapid, and cost-effective approach for the quantification of these clinically important pharmaceutical compounds and aid in their quality control analysis. The method employed firefly algorithm for variable selection and partial least squares (PLS) regression for model calibration. The developed method was validated by independent test set in addition the accuracy, intra and inter-day precision as per ICH guidelines which showed a satisfactory performance with mean recovery ranged between 98.18 and 101.83 with %RSD < 2. Besides, the developed method displayed ultrasensitive levels with LODs (0.0803, 0.1125, 0.1309 µg/mL) and LOQs (0.2434, 0.3409, 0.3968 µg/mL) for ciprofloxacin, lomefloxacin, and enrofloxacin, respectively. The greenness and blueness of the developed method were also evaluated using the recently proposed Analytical GREEnness metric approach (AGREE) and Blue applicability grade index (BAGI) tools, which showed a high AGREE score of 0.79 and a BAGI score of 77.5. These results indicate that the developed method provides an environmentally friendly alternative to the traditionally used chromatographic techniques, while maintaining high analytical practicability. Finally, the application of the developed methodology was demonstrated on real pharmaceutical and tap water samples, and the results were in good agreement with those obtained by the reference HPLC method indicating the reliability and suitability of the proposed spectrophotometric method for routine analysis of fluoroquinolone antibiotics.
Highlight selection of radiochemistry and radiopharmacy developments by editorial board
Authors: Scott Peter JH. , Penuelas Ivan , Rey Ana , Aime Silvio , Ambikalmajan Pillai M.R. , Antunes Ines Farinha , Cleeren Frederik , Liu Zhaofei , Ellis Beverley , Kahts Maryke , Ekoume Fany Pricile , Chaple Ivis F. , Bernardes Emerson , Behe Martin , Huang Ya-Yao , Mikolajczak Renata , Furumoto Shozo , Elrefaei Amal , Kopka Klaus
Published: September 2024

Background

The Editorial Board of EJNMMI Radiopharmacy and Chemistry releases a biannual highlight commentary to update the readership on trends in the field of radiopharmaceutical development.

Main body

This selection of highlights provides commentary on 19 different topics selected by each coauthoring Editorial Board member addressing a variety of aspects ranging from novel radiochemistry to first-in-human application of novel radiopharmaceuticals.

Conclusion

Trends in radiochemistry and radiopharmacy are highlighted. Hot topics cover the entire scope of EJNMMI Radiopharmacy and Chemistry, demonstrating the progress in the research field in many aspects.
Physiological responses of Lizard, Toad and Pigeon during rainy season in tropical savanna climate
Authors: Ajayi Ayodeji Folorunsho , Ogundipe Oluwadare Joshua , Ajayi Lukman Olawale , Oyerinde Abiodun , Akinpelu Omolola Funke
Published: September 2024

Background

This study investigated the adaptation mechanisms of Pigeons, Toads and Lizards during the rainy season in tropical savanna climates. Male Agama Lizards (Agama agama), Afep Pigeons (Columba unicincta) and Toads (Sclerophrys perreti) were captured at a location in Ibadan, Oyo state. Five (5) Lizards marked: L1 to L5, Afep Pigeons marked: B1 to B5 and Toads marked: T1 to T5. Each of the animals was manually constrained within six to eight hours of capture, and a 1.0-ml syringe was used to obtain blood from the heart or coccygeal vein. Blood samples were collected in an EDTA and plain bottle, respectively. Plasma and sera samples were separated by centrifugation at − 4 °C using a cold centrifuge and then analysed for creatinine, urea, glucose, Mg+, k+, Cl−, Na+, albumin, TP, ALP, ALT, AST, GGT, MDA, SOD, CAT, GSH and haematological parameters. Cervical dislocation was performed on the animals before organs such as kidneys and liver were collected from each of the animals. Each organ collected from each animal was placed in separate plain tubes (filled with phosphate buffer).

Result

The Pigeon had higher body temperature, urea, glucose, ALP, PCV, haemoglobin concentration, neutrophil and triglyceride compared to the Lizard and Toad, while the Toad had higher Na+, Mg+ and Cl−, basophil and monocytes compared to Pigeon and Lizard and the Lizard has higher creatinine, lymphocyte and cholesterol compared to the Pigeon and Toad. On the liver oxidative stress markers, the Pigeon has higher superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione compared to the Lizard and Toad, while the Toad has higher MDA and catalase compared to the Pigeon and Lizard. On the kidney oxidative stress markers, the Pigeon has higher MDA compared to the Lizard and Toad, while the Toad has higher catalase than the Pigeon and Lizard.

Conclusions

From this study, the elevated level of lymphocytes in Lizard and eosinophil, basophil and monocytes in Toad suggests that Lizards and Toad are more vulnerable to inflammation. The high value of cholesterol in Lizard and triglyceride in Pigeon as observed in this study may relate to the degree of stress. Also, the activation of antioxidant systems under comparative study is a part of the survival strategy of animals like amphibians, reptiles and aves when facing environmental problems.
Role of pleural manometry and transthoracic ultrasonography to predict entrapped lung
Authors: Youssef Shaimaa Magdy Abou , Mohamed Ahmed Abdelsadek , Amin Diaa Eldin Abdelazeem , Amin Nashwa Ahmed
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Unexpandable lung is a complication by which the lung does not expand to the chest wall with pleural space drainage, which will result in adverse events or intervention failure if not well recognized prior to the intervention.

Aim of the work

This study aimed to assess the role of pleural manometry and transthoracic ultrasonography in predicting abnormal lung expansion during pleural drainage.

Patients and methods

This was a prospective observational analytical study involving 50 patients that aims to predict abnormal lung expansion during pleural drainage using pleural manometry and transthoracic ultrasound.

Results

Regarding pleural manometry (pleural elastance), all patients in the entrapped lung group (100%) had pleural elastance > 14.5 cmH2o/L, while in the non-entrapped lung group, all patients (100%) had pleural elastance ≤ 14.5 cmH2o/L. Regarding ultrasonography, pleural thickening > 0.5 cm was found in all patients with entrapped lung (100%) and 50% of patients with non-entrapped lung with statistically significant difference. In the entrapped lung group, 20%, 35%, and 45% of patients had simple, complex non-septated, and complex septated pleural effusion, respectively, while in the non-entrapped lung group, 63.35%, 33.33%, and 3.32% of patients had simple, complex non-septated, and complex septated effusion, respectively, with statistically significant difference (p-value 0.0005).

Conclusion

Pleural manometry and transthoracic ultrasound can guide decision-making regarding the timing of pleural interventions and management of cases with entrapped lung.
Fasting in critical illness: the role of ketonuria — a retrospective observational study
Authors: Ottaviani Irene , Tantillo Simona , Miggiano Lorenzo , Guarnera Martina , Menghini Marco , Talarico Francesco , Mazzanti Federica , Cilloni Nicola
Published: September 2024

Background

Metabolic acidosis is a frequent finding in patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). It can be caused by prolonged fasting due to surgical procedures or by medical conditions that lead to starvation ketoacidosis (SKA). Early recognition and treatment of SKA could prevent several life-threatening complications, improving survival and reducing the ICU length of stay.

Methods

We retrospectively screened all medical records of patients admitted to the ICU (Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, North Italy) from May 2022 to April 2023. We included patients aged 18 years or older who presented ketonuria detected in the urine sample.

Results

We analyzed 190 patients with ketonuria at ICU admission. Postsurgical patients showed lower levels of albumin and a higher rate of shock compared to medical patients. Ketonuric patients with shock had a lower body mass index (BMI) compared to patients without shock (24 versus 26 kg/m2, respectively). There were no differences within groups regarding mortality and ICU readmission rate. Medical patients had a significantly higher ICU length of stay.

Conclusions

This retrospective observational descriptive study showed that patients with ketonuria, hypoalbuminemia, and low BMI at ICU admission have high risk of hemodynamic instability and shock. Surgical patients compared to medical patients are exposed to a catabolic trigger that could worsen a state of malnutrition and induce anabolic resistance; elective and urgent surgical patients did not differ in terms of risk of shock and mortality, probably due to the activation of this catabolic pathway. Early recognition and treatment of starvation ketoacidosis and perioperative nutritional optimization could reduce incidence of hemodynamic and metabolic complications.
Cryoablation Without Excision for Early-Stage Breast Cancer: ICE3 Trial 5-Year Follow-Up on Ipsilateral Breast Tumor Recurrence
Authors: Fine Richard E. , Gilmore Richard C. , Tomkovich Kenneth R. , Dietz Jill R. , Berry Michael P. , Hernandez Lydia E. , Columbus Karen S. , Seedman Susan A. , Fisher Carla S. , Han Linda K. , Manahan Eric R. , Hicks Randy D. , Vaidya Rashmi P. , Curcio Lisa D. , Sevrukov Alexander B. , Kenler Andrew S. , Taback Bret , Chen Margaret , Miller Megan E. , Gold Linsey , Anglin Beth V. , Aoun Hussein D. , Simmons Rache M. , Feldman Sheldon M. , Boolbol Susan K.
Published: September 2024

Background

The ICE3 trial evaluated the safety and efficacy of cryoablation in women aged ≥60 years with low-risk, early-stage breast cancers, aiming to provide a non-operative treatment option and avoid potential surgical risks. This study presents 5-year follow-up trial results.

Methods

The ICE3 trial is an Institutional Review Board-approved, prospective, multicentered, non-randomized trial including women ≥ 60 years of age with unifocal, ultrasound visible, invasive ductal carcinoma ≤ 1.5 cm in size, histologic grade 1–2, hormone receptor (HR)-positive, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative. The primary study endpoint of 5-year ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) was evaluated based on Kaplan–Meier estimates.

Results

Overall, 194 patients meeting eligibility received successful cryoablation treatment per protocol and were included for analysis. The mean age was 74.9 years (55–94) with a mean tumor size of 7.4 mm transverse (2.8–14.0 mm) and 8.1 mm sagittal (2.5–14.9 mm). With a mean follow-up period of 54.16 months, the IBTR rate at 5 years was 4.3% and breast cancer survival was 96.7%. Of the 124 patients who received endocrine therapy only, the IBTR was 3.7%. No serious device-related adverse events were reported. Minor (88.2%) and moderate (9.6%) adverse events were mild in severity and resolved without residual effects. Quality-of-life score demonstrated statistically significant improvement (p < 0.001) in distress at 6 months as compared with baseline.

Conclusions

Breast cryoablation presents a promising alternative to surgery in selected patients, offering the benefits of a minimally invasive procedure with minimal risks. Further studies are encouraged to confirm cryoablation as a viable alternative to surgical excision low-risk patients.
Effects of Sports Bras and Breast Volume on Pulmonary System and Respiratory Symptom Responses to Exercise in Healthy Females
Authors: ILLIDI CAMILLA R. , JENSEN DENNIS
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study assessed the individual and combined effects of sports bras and breast volume on pulmonary system and respiratory symptom responses to exercise in recreationally active females.

Methods

Twenty-three healthy females (18–27 yr; bra sizes 32B–36DDD) were divided into small and large breast volume groups (SBV and LBV, respectively) around median volume (324 mL; mean ± SD SBV: 284 ± 38 mL vs LBV: 560 ± 97 mL; P < 0.001, g = 3.84). Participants completed three 5-min bouts of constant-load cycle exercise at 30%, 60%, and 90% of their peak power output while wearing a high-support sports bra, low-support sports bralette, or their personal (self-selected) sports bra in randomized order. Measurements included ventilation, breathing pattern, respiratory pressures, diaphragm electromyogram (EMGdi), and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), breathlessness (intensity and unpleasantness), and chest tightness due to bra.

Results

Compared with low-support and personal sports bras, the high-support sports bra evoked stronger sensations of restricted breathing and chest tightness (“slight” to “moderate” restriction in n = 7 (30%) vs n = 1 (4%) in low-support and personal bras; P = 0.014). There was, however, no evidence of greater concomitant inspiratory constraints, EMGdi, or inspiratory muscle pressure generation in either bra (all P > 0.05). Notably, LBV compared with SBV, participants reported greater RPE (P = 0.037, η
p
2 = 0.20), breathlessness intensity (P = 0.039, η
p
2 = 0.20), and unpleasantness (P = 0.041; η
p
2 = 0.19), which, in the setting of comparable pulmonary system responses to exercise, was likely driven by stronger perceived chest tightness and/or bra awareness in LBV participants.

Conclusions

Despite evoking mild-to-moderately severe chest tightness due to bra during exercise, correctly fitted sports bras, whether low- or high-support, do not impose a physiological burden to the respiratory system and its response to mild-to-heavy intensity exercise in otherwise healthy females.
Επιρροή της σεισμικής στροφικής απόκρισης της πασσαλοθεμελίωσης στην επιτελεστικότητα γεφυρών μεγάλου ύψους και ανεμογεννητριών
Authors: Μυλωνά Έλλη-Κωνσταντίνα
Published: September 2024

Η απόκριση των πασσαλοθεμελιώσεων στη δράση των κατακορύφως διαδιδόμενων διατμητικών, σεισμικών κυμάτων αποτελείται από μία μεταφορική και μία στροφική συνιστώσα. Αντικείμενο του παρόντος αποτελεί η διερεύνηση της επιρροής της συνολικής σεισμικής διέγερσης, αποτελούμενης από μεταφορική και στροφική επιτάχυνση, σε κατασκευές θεμελιωμένες επί πασσάλων. Τα διατμητικά, σεισμικά κύματα διαδίδονται κατακορύφως εντός του εδάφους επιβάλλοντας χρονοϊστορίες μετακινήσεων διαφορετικών χαρακτηριστικών κατά μήκος των πασσάλων θεμελίωσης. Στην κεφαλή τους, οι πασσαλοθεμελιώσεις εκτελούν σύνθετη κίνηση, που συνίσταται από μεταφορική και στροφική συνιστώσα, η οποία διεγείρει την ανωδομή αποτελώντας την πραγματική Κίνηση Εισαγωγής στη Θεμελίωση (FIM). Η επιστημονική κοινότητα, θεωρώντας το μέγεθος της στροφικής συνιστώσας μικρό, επιλέγει συνήθως την αγνόησή της με αποτέλεσμα να μην είναι γνωστή η επιρροή που αυτή ασκεί στις κατασκευές. Για την ποσοτικοποίηση της επιρροής της στροφικής απόκρισης των πασσαλοθεμελιώσεων χρησιμοποιήθηκαν γέφυρες και ανεμογεννήτριες εδραζόμενες επί μεμονωμένων και ομάδων πασσάλων σε διάφορους τύπους εδαφικών σχηματισμών. Διεγείροντας τα συστήματα εδάφους – θεμελίωσης με αρμονικές κινήσεις, παλμούς και πραγματικές σεισμικές καταγραφές και λαμβάνοντας υπ’ όψην τη σύνθετη, μεταφορική και στροφική, κίνηση που φορτίζει την ανωδομή, προκύπτει ότι η συμμετοχή της στροφικής κίνησης της πασσαλοθεμελίωσης μεταβάλει την απόκριση της κατασκευής. Το μέγεθος της μεταβολής εξαρτάται από τα δυναμικά χαρακτηριστικά του συστήματος εδάφους – θεμελίωσης – ανωδομής σε συνδυασμό με το συχνοτικό περιεχόμενο της διέγερσης και μπορεί να είναι είτε σημαντικό, ενισχύοντας την απόκριση στην κορυφή των κατασκευών, είτε σχεδόν μηδενικό, ικανό να αγνοηθεί, αλλά σε καμία περίπτωση ευεργετικό, απομειώνοντας την απόκριση της ανωδομής. Η επιρροή της στροφικής αυτής κίνησης αποδίδεται στο στερεοστατικό μηχανισμό απόκρισης των κατασκευών υπό τη δράση της σε συνδυασμό με την ενεργοποίηση στροφικών ιδιομορφών ταλάντωσης.
Ιδέες και διαδικασίες μάθησης Φοιτητών Τμημάτων Φυσικής και Χημείας πάνω στις εξαρτώμενες από το μέγεθος οπτικές ιδιότητες υλικών στην νανοκλίμακα
Authors: Μεταξάς Ιωάννης , Σταύρου Δημήτριος , Παυλίδης Ιωάννης
Published: September 2024

Το καινοτόμο πεδίο της Νανοτεχνολογίας έχει ευρέως καταγεγραμμένη διδακτική αξία σε όλες τις βαθμίδες εκπαίδευσης. Σε αυτήν την εργασία παρουσιάζεται η εφαρμογή μιας διδακτικής ακολουθίας, δομημένη με βάση τις αρχές του Μοντέλου της Διδακτικής Αναδόμησης. Yυλοποιήθηκε με τη μέθοδο του Διδακτικού Πειράματος σχετικά με τις εξαρτώμενες από το μέγεθος ιδιότητες στην νανοκλίμακα, με σκοπό τη διερεύνηση ιδεών και διαδικασιών μάθησης φοιτητών/τριων τμημάτων χημείας και φυσικής. Tα αποτελέσματα έδειξαν μια σειρά αρχικών εναλλακτικών ιδεών καθώς και μία πιθανή διαδικασία υπέρβασης τους μέσω της εισαγωγής της έννοιας του κβαντικού εγκλωβισμού.
Ανάπτυξη ψηφιακών περιβαλλόντων μάθησης για διδασκαλία STEM αντικειμένων στην τριτοβάθμια εκπαίδευση
Authors: Καπελώνης Νικόλαος , Σταύρου Δημήτριος
Published: September 2024

Η παρούσα έρευνα στοχεύει στο να μελετήσει την ανάπτυξη και εφαρμογή ψηφιακού περιβάλλοντος μάθησης για διδασκαλία STEM αντικειμένων στην τριτοβάθμια εκπαίδευση. Στη παρούσα φάση η έρευνα επικεντρώνεται στη θεματική της «Κλιματικής Αλλαγής», όπου σχετικό υλικό θα ψηφιοποιηθεί, θα δομηθεί σε μαθησιακά αντικείμενα και θα αναρτηθεί σε σύστημα διαχείρισης μαθησιακών δραστηριοτήτων. Η εφαρμογή του παραγόμενου υλικού θα γίνει σε φοιτητές τριτοβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης, όπου θα διερευνηθούν οι ανάγκες και οι αντιλήψεις σχετικά με τη διαχείριση και επεξεργασία του ψηφιοποιημένου STEM διδακτικού υλικού. Η έρευνα βρίσκεται στη φάση ενσωμάτωσης των μαθησιακών αντικειμένων στην πλατφόρμα δραστηριοτήτων, και αναμένεται η εφαρμογή της το επόμενο χρονικό διάστημα.
Σχεδιασμός και Πιλοτική Εφαρμογή Διδακτικής Μαθησιακής Ακολουθίας για την Εννοιολογική Κατανόηση της Eντροπίας από Υποψήφιους Εκπαιδευτικούς μέσω μιας Μικροσκοπικής Προσέγγισης
Authors: Μπακάλη Βάια , Ασημόπουλος Στέφανος
Published: September 2024

Η παρούσα μελέτη πραγματεύεται την ανάπτυξη μιας Διδακτικής Μαθησιακής Ακολουθίας για την εννοιολογική κατανόηση της εντροπίας και των εννοιών που εμπλέκονται με αυτή σε μια μικροσκοπική προσέγγιση. Χρησιμοποιώντας ως πλαίσιο το Μοντέλο της Διδακτικής Αναδόμησης για τη συλλογή των δεδομένων εφαρμόστηκε το διδακτικό πείραμα σε ζευγάρια φοιτητριών Παιδαγωγικού τμήματος. Μέσω των αναλύσεων των πορειών μάθησης των φοιτητριών επιδιώκεται η ανάδειξη των σχέσεων που δημιουργούνται μεταξύ των κυρίαρχων εννοιών στη ΔΜΑ και η αποτύπωση του ρόλου των μοντέλων που εφαρμόστηκαν για τη μικροσκοπική προσέγγιση της εντροπίας.  Καταγράφονται οι εξελισσόμενες αντιλήψεις των φοιτητριών αναφορικά με τις έννοιες, οι δυσκολίες που αντιμετώπισαν και ο τρόπος συσχέτισής τους με τα εν λόγω μοντέλα.
Σχεδιασμός και ανάπτυξη μεθοδολογίας για την κατασκευή εφαρμογών Προσαρμοστικής Παιχνιδοποίησης στις Φ.Ε
Authors: Ζουρμπάκης Αλκίνοος Ιωάννης , Καλογιαννάκης Μιχαήλ
Published: September 2024

Η εκπαίδευση στις Φ.Ε είναι απαραίτητη για την απόκτηση επιστημονικού γραμματισμού. Όμως, οι επιστημονικές έννοιες είναι συχνά δυσκολονόητες  και μπορεί να οδηγήσουν τους μαθητές στην ανάπτυξη εναλλακτικών αντιλήψεων. Μία ταχεία αναπτυσσόμενη τάση στην ενσωμάτωση νέων τεχνολογιών στην εκπαίδευση είναι η προσαρμοστική παιχνιδοποίηση. Οι τεχνολογικές εφαρμογές που χρησιμοποιούνται στην εκπαίδευση θα πρέπει να σχεδιάζονται σε συσχέτιση με το μαθησιακό περιεχόμενο, παιδαγωγικές προσεγγίσεις, στρατηγικές μάθησης και χαρακτηριστικά για την κατασκευή της γνώσης των μαθητών. Η παρούσα μελέτη έχει ως σκοπό την ανάπτυξη μιας μεθοδολογίας προσαρμοστικής παιχνιδοποίησης που θα βασίζεται συσχετιζόμενες θεωρίες ψυχολογίας και κινήτρων, ενσωματώνοντας προσαρμοστικά κριτήρια, στρατηγικές μάθησης, στοιχεία παιχνιδιού και όλες τις ζωτικές πτυχές της μαθησιακής διαδικασίας που σχετίζονται με την εκπαίδευση στις Φ.Ε.
Διδακτικές Παρεμβάσεις σε Mαθητές/Mαθήτριες Λυκείου στη Στρατηγική Ελέγχου Μεταβλητών με τη Xρήση ενός Παιδαγωγικού Πράκτορα σε Συνεργατικό Πλαίσιο
Authors: Σακελλαρίου Σιλβέστρα , Σοφιανίδης Άγγελος , Χατζηκρανιώτης Ευριπίδης
Published: September 2024

Η παρούσα εργασία αποτελεί μία πιλοτική εφαρμογή που εστιάζει στην εξοικείωση των μαθητών /μαθητριών Λυκείου με τη Στρατηγική Ελέγχου Μεταβλητών. Η προσέγγιση πραγματοποιείται με τη χρήση ενός Παιδαγωγικού Πράκτορα (ΠΠ) και αποτιμώνται η αποδοχή και η αποτελεσματικότητά του. Ο ΠΠ αναπτύχθηκε με τις αρχές της επαυξημένης πραγματικότητας και εφαρμόζεται σε μικρές ομάδες που εργάζονται σε συνεργατικό πλαίσιο.
Η Διερεύνηση ως Μέθοδος Διδασκαλίας για το μάθημα της Φυσικής στη Δευτεροβάθμια Εκπαίδευση: Μία επισκόπηση της βιβλιογραφίας
Authors: Κουμή Στυλιανή , Ζουπίδης Αναστάσιος
Published: September 2024

Στην παρούσα εργασία παρουσιάζονται τα αποτελέσματα μελέτης από την επισκόπηση της βιβλιογραφίας σχετικά με τη μέθοδο της διερεύνησης για το μάθημα της Φυσικής σε μαθητές της Δευτεροβάθμιας Εκπαίδευσης. Πρόκειται για μία μελέτη ως προς το τί είναι διερεύνηση, ποια είναι τα πλεονεκτήματα και τα μειονεκτήματα της μεθόδου, πότε χρησιμοποιείται καθώς και πότε κρίνεται επιτυχής η χρήση της. Η μελέτη είναι βιβλιογραφική και αναφέρεται σε διεθνή και ελληνική βιβλιογραφία. Τα αποτελέσματα της μέχρι τώρα μελέτης δείχνουν να γίνεται μία ευρεία χρήση της μεθόδου κυρίως στο εξωτερικό καθώς έχει πλείστα θετικά αποτελέσματα σε πολλούς μαθησιακούς και γνωστικούς τομείς.
ORGANIZATIONAL AND LEGAL ASPECTS OF THE REGULATION OF LABOR RELATIONS OF AN EDUCATIONAL ORGANIZATION AND AN ADVISER TO THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION
Authors: Bezvikonnaya Elena V. , Savkin Andrey A.
Published: September 2024

Legal aspects of regulating labor relations with the participation of an educational adviser ("adviser to the director of education and interaction with children's public associations"), in the context of a significant number of publications, instructions and the professional standard "Specialist in the field of education", gaps remain in the practice of an educational organization. Law enforcement practice demonstrates problems in the field of concluding an employment contract and its essential conditions, securing a list of labor functions, securing a position in the staffing table, calculating wages, etc.
The purpose of the article is to identify organizational and legal gaps in the regulation of the work of educational advisers. The subject of the study is the Institute of labor relations with the participation of teaching staff, since the position of adviser is attributed to the positions of teaching staff.
The result of the study is the systematization of gaps in the organizational and legal aspects of regulating the work of an educational adviser. The novelty of the research lies in the generalization of the regulatory and legal practice of ensuring the activities of an adviser in an educational organization. For the science of labor law, the article is of interest, since it has been proved that the position of an education adviser belongs to the positions of teaching staff based on an analysis of the specifics of labor relations. The author's assessment of the adviser's place in the structure of educational legal relations, due to the peculiarities of the legal status of the employee, becomes a component of scientific novelty.
ACTIVITIES OF INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS IN THE SPHERE OF PREVENTION AND LIMITATION OF EMERGENCY SITUATIONS IN THE ARCTIC REGION
Authors: Gavrilenko Vladimir A. , Goloveiko Inga V. , Nemchenko Stanislav B.
Published: September 2024

Relevance. The relevance of the ongoing scientific work is due to the need to develop reasonable proposals to improve the legal regulation of international cooperation in the field of emergency prevention and response in the Arctic.
Purpose. The article is devoted to the activities of international organizations in the Arctic region in order to establish and justify ways to harmonize international interstate interaction and develop an international legal framework for cooperation and mutual assistance in the sphere of prevention and response to emergency situations in the Arctic.
Methodology. The basis of the research are general scientific methods, and also the methods of formal legal and comparative legal analysis.
Results. The analysis of 7 international organizations operating in the sphere of prevention and response to emergency situations in the Arctic region was done. The research of activities of the above organizations in the sphere of interstate interaction indicates the readiness of the Arctic states to jointly confront emergency situations and their consequences. It is unacceptable to make issues of this interaction dependent on geopolitical and other interests. Scientifically based proposals have been formulated to improve the legal regulation of international cooperation within the framework of international organizations in the sphere of prevention and response to emergency situations in the Arctic region.
Conclusions. It seems that constant work is needed to improve the activities of international organizations and their legal regulation both at the global level and in the specialized spheres of emergency prevention and response.
Practical implications. The results of the research can be applied in the spheres of international politics and international law.
Characterization of the algebraic difference of special affine Cantor sets
Authors: Nowakowski Piotr
Published: September 2024

We investigate some self-similar Cantor sets $C(l,r,p)$, which we call S-Cantor sets, generated by numbers $l,r,p \in \N$, $l+r< p$. We give a full characterization
of the set $C(l_1,r_1,p)-C(l_2,r_2,p)$ which can take one of the form:
the interval $[-1,1]$, a Cantor set, an L-Cantorval, an R-Cantorval or an M-Cantorval.
As corollaries we give examples of Cantor sets and Cantorvals, which can be easily described using some positional numeral systems.
Brazilian Parties in the XXI Century and the Conservative Agenda of the New Right
Authors: Tarouco Gabriela
Published: September 2024

Conservative agenda is a fundamental component of the New Right politics in the public debate throughout the world. However, in Brazil, the conservative agenda has been advanced across the entire party system, from left to right, by new and old political parties. This paper compares proposals for constitutional amendments presented between 2001 and 2022 by federal deputies in Brazil, focusing on targeted restrictions of rights and guarantees and the tightening of law-and-order provisions. The findings show that neither new-entrant parties nor ideology predict the saliency of conservative content in parties’ constitutional activity. This analysis contributes to disentangling the conservative agenda from the concept of right-wing politics, even the New Right.