bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Herding-like behaviour in medical decision making: An experimental study investigating general practitioners’ prescription behaviour
Authors: Stoffel Sandro Tiziano , Spencer Rachel , Konya Judit , Vlaev Ivo , Schwenkglenks Matthias
Published: July 2024

Previous observational studies have indicated that social influences, such as arising from herding-like behaviour, can contribute to medical errors. In this study, we experimentally examined whether general practitioners (GPs) would follow incorrect prescription recommendations from fellow GP or specialists. To investigate this, we conducted an online survey with 475 GPs practicing in England that included two case vignettes. Case vignette 1 focused on sleeping tablets, and case vignette 2 was centred around antibiotics. The vignettes were presented in random order, and within each vignette, study participants were assigned to one of three experimental conditions: control condition (lacking peer recommendation), fellow GP condition (including a recommendation from a fellow GP not aligned with best practice clinical guidelines), or specialist condition (including a recommendation from a specialist not aligned with best practice clinical guidelines). The primary outcome measure was the proportion of GPs who prescribed medication that deviated from best practice clinical guidelines. We found that, in both case vignettes, the percentage of respondents prescribing such medication was highest in those assigned to the specialist condition, followed by those assigned to the control condition. It was lowest in those assigned to the fellow GP condition (case vignette 1: 73.8% vs. 55.6% vs. 36.6% and case vignette 2: 24.0% vs. 12.4% vs. 10.1%). In the case of vignette 1, the difference between the fellow GP condition and the control condition is statistically significant, suggesting that GPs are less likely to prescribe sleeping tablets when recommended by a fellow GP. This implies that GPs are more inclined to prescribe non-guideline-recommended medication when advised by specialists. This study is the first to experimentally demonstrate that physician herding behaviour can result in prescription errors. Future research could extend this inquiry to diverse contexts, including diagnosis.
Diabetes mellitus in sub-saharan Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic: A scoping review
Authors: Sseguya Wenceslaus , Bahendeka Silver , MacLennan Sara , Mody Nimesh , Guntupalli Aravinda Meera
Published: July 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the healthcare and outcomes of individuals with various chronic diseases. However, there is a paucity of data on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on diabetes mellitus (DM) in low-resource settings. To address this, we conducted a scoping review to explore the literature published on diabetes-related COVID-19 outcomes and care during the COVID-19 pandemic in countries of sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

We applied our search strategy to PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, African Index Medicus, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Science Direct, ERIC and Embase to obtain relevant articles published from January 2020 to March 2023. Two independent reviewers were involved in screening the retrieved articles. Data from eligible articles were extracted from quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods studies. Quantitative evidence was summarised using descriptive statistics, while a thematic framework was used to identify and categorise themes from qualitative evidence.

Results

We found 42 of the retrieved 360 articles eligible, mainly from South Africa, Ethiopia and Ghana (73.4%). The incidence of DM among COVID-19 cases was 13.7/1,000 person-days observation. COVID-19 was associated with increased odds of death (OR 1.30–9.0, 95% CI), hospitalisation (OR 3.30–3.73: 95% CI), and severity (OR: 1.30–4.05, 95% CI) in persons with DM. Challenges in caring for DM during the pandemic were inadequate patient self-management, difficulties in healthcare access, and inadequate healthcare resources.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic was characterised by a high incidence of DM in persons infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and high COVID-19-associated mortality, severity, and hospitalisation among people persons with DM. The pandemic also created difficulties in DM self-management and worsened the quality of DM care services. Policymakers should devise preventive and management strategies for DM during emerging and re-emerging infectious disease epidemics and outbreaks, given that such occurrences are increasingly frequent in the region.
An mRNA vaccine for pancreatic cancer designed by applying in silico immunoinformatics and reverse vaccinology approaches
Authors: Masum Md. Habib Ullah , Wajed Shah , Hossain Md. Imam , Moumi Nusrat Rahman , Talukder Asma , Rahman Md. Mijanur
Published: July 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is the most prevalent pancreatic cancer, which is considered a significant global health concern. Chemotherapy and surgery are the mainstays of current pancreatic cancer treatments; however, a few cases are suitable for surgery, and most of the cases will experience recurrent episodes. Compared to DNA or peptide vaccines, mRNA vaccines for pancreatic cancer have more promise because of their delivery, enhanced immune responses, and lower proneness to mutation. We constructed an mRNA vaccine by analyzing S100 family proteins, which are all major activators of receptors for advanced glycation end products. We applied immunoinformatic approaches, including physicochemical properties analysis, structural prediction and validation, molecular docking study, in silico cloning, and immune simulations. The designed mRNA vaccine was estimated to have a molecular weight of 165023.50 Da and was highly soluble (grand average of hydropathicity of -0.440). In the structural assessment, the vaccine seemed to be a well-stable and functioning protein (Z score of -8.94). Also, the docking analysis suggested that the vaccine had a high affinity for TLR-2 and TLR-4 receptors. Additionally, the molecular mechanics with generalized Born and surface area solvation analysis of the "Vaccine—TLR-2" (-141.07 kcal/mol) and "Vaccine—TLR-4" (-271.72 kcal/mol) complexes also suggests a strong binding affinity for the receptors. Codon optimization also provided a high expression level with a GC content of 47.04% and a codon adaptation index score 1.0. The appearance of memory B-cells and T-cells was also observed over a while, with an increased level of helper T-cells and immunoglobulins (IgM and IgG). Moreover, the minimum free energy of the mRNA vaccine was predicted at -1760.00 kcal/mol, indicating the stability of the vaccine following its entry, transcription, and expression. This hypothetical vaccine offers a groundbreaking tool for future research and therapeutic development of pancreatic cancer.
Spatial-temporal distribution of debt and delinquency of the elderly in Thailand: Perspectives from the National Credit Bureau data
Authors: Tontisirin Nij , Anantsuksomsri Sutee , Laovakul Duangmanee
Published: July 2024

Household debt in Thailand has become a serious problem, particularly for the elderly, because they have less ability to pay debts compared to the working population. Therefore, better understanding of the elderly’s debt and delinquency is crucial in policy formulation for the aged society. Previous works have focused on the elderly’s debt, either at the macro or individual levels. Little is known about geographic differences at the regional level. Knowing where the elderly debt and delinquency tend to cluster could guide area-specific policies to tackle the elderly financial stability. This research aims to examine the spatio-temporal distribution of the debt and delinquency of the near-elderly population (age 50–59) and the elderly (age 60 and above) using data from the National Credit Bureau of Thailand from 2008 to 2019. The analysis focuses on various types of loans. Spatial clusters are identified by Moran’s I and Local Geary statistics. The results show that the pattern of elderly debt and delinquency generally follows the life cycle hypothesis, except for credit card and business-related loans. There exist spatial clusters and spatial differences in different types of loans, suggesting regional heterogeneities that require area-specific policy responses.
Russian roulette: Serbian pop culture and global soft-power conflict
Authors: Mlađenović Nikola
Published: July 2024

This article focuses on the recent Russian and Serbian pop-political entanglement. Russians usually rely on hard-power elements like military, energy and economics, but in the last several years they became active as sport club sponsors, telecommunication provider’s partners and film producers. The article examines the latter phenomenon of increasing presence of Russian characters within Serbian media culture, whether it is domestic, Russian or American production, like in the case of Stranger Things, where a Serbian actor Nikola Đuričko plays a Russian smuggler. The central figure though is young actor Miloš Biković, hired many times by Russian film producers in the last decade. His film The Balkan Line (2019) is examined in this article as a representative of Russian soft-power influence as well as their geopolitical stance. The Balkan Shadows (2017–present) and Stranger Things (2016–present) are analysed as pro-western counterparts in this superpower struggle within Serbian media culture.
Inkluni ikerketa taldea. Gaixotasun arraroak dituzten norbanakoen zein haien familien bizitza kalitatean eta inklusioan eragiten
Authors: Amenabarro Iraola Esti , Ozerinjauregi Beldarrain Nagore
Published: July 2024

Gaixotasun Arraroak (GA) dituzten haur eta nerabeen zein haien familien inklusioan jarri du historikoki azpimarra UPV/EHUko Inkluni Ikerketa Taldeak (IIT). Baita pertsona horien zein haien familia eta inguru hurbilaren bizitza kalitatea optimizatzean ere. Horiek horrela, bere ibilbide historikoan zehar hainbat proiektu garatu ditu; bakoitzak bere xehetasun propioak izanik ere, guztiek bat egiten dute bi ideietan: lehena, GA dituzten norbanakoen zein haien familien inklusioa, sozializazio esparru garrantzitsua izanik ere, ez da soilik eskola eremura mugatu behar; bigarrenik, zabaltze horrek hezkuntza sistemaz haratagoko sistemetan, osasunean zein gizarte eremuan arreta jartzea eskatzen du. Honela, IITak GA dituzten pertsonen bizitza kalitatean eragiteko lan egin du. Modu berean, lan hori balio inklusiboetan sakontzeko modua eta aukera izan da, bai teorikoki corpus propio bat eraikita bizipen pertsonaletatik abiatuta, GA dituzten norbanakoen presentzia, parte hartzea eta ikaskuntza zein ekitatean sakontzeko aukera eskainiz; baita metodologikoki ere, inklusioa eta justizia soziala oinarri duen ikerketa proposamen auto-eratuen bidez, ikerketa ekintzaren parametroetan kokatuta, GA dituzten haur eta nerabeen familien partaidetza esanguratsuarekin batera osasun, hezkuntza eta gizarte eremuko profesionalekin osatu delako. Aurkezten dugun lan honetan, ibilbide horretan IITaren ekarpen pedagogikoa balioan jartzeaz batera, etorkizunean GAen inguruko ikerketaren ildo estrategikoak finkatu nahi dira.
Desgaitasuna eskubideen ikuspegitik: adimen-desgaitasuna duten pertsonen eskubideak eta bizi-kalitatea Gipuzkoan
Authors: Amunarriz Iruretagoiena Irati , Rodriguez Poza Aintzane , Manterola Pavo Peio
Published: July 2024

Lan honek giza eskubideen ikuspegitik heltzen dio desgaitasunari Desgaitasuna duten Pertsonen Eskubideei buruzko Nazioarteko Konbentzioan oinarrituta. Oraindik ez dago Konbentzioak, ekarri duen lege-garapenaz haratago, desgaitasuna duten pertsonen bizitzetan duen eragina sistematikoki aztertu duen ebaluaziorik. Hala, aipatutako hitzarmeneko eskubideek estatu espainiarrean duten aplikazio errealari buruzko hainbat ikerketa eta erakunde ezberdinek ildo beretik egin dituzten txostenak aztertu ostean, legalki eman diren aurrerapenenak benetako eskubideen aplikazioan islatu ez izanak sortu duen kezka orokortuaz jabetu gara. Eskubide horien ezarpenak izan duen eragina ebaluatzeko, Konbentzioaren artikuluak eraginkor bihurtuko dituzten tresnen eskaria oinarri hartuta, bizi-kalitatearen ereduaren aldeko apustua egin dugu, kontzeptu- nahiz neurketa-esparru gisa baliagarria dela frogatu duten hainbat adituk egindako lanari jarraiki. Hori horrela, ekarpen honek GENCAT Eskalarekin egindako lehen saiakeraren emaitzak aurkezten ditu, hain zuzen ere, Gipuzkoako eguneko arreta-zerbitzuen erabiltzaile diren eta adimen-desgaitasuna duten pertsonen bizi-kalitatearen emaitzetatik abiatuta eskuratutako eskubideen inguruko datu batzuk. Era berean, lagin horrek puntuazio onenak lortu dituen bizi-kalitatearen dimentsioak nabarmendu, eta hobetu daitezkeenak identifikatu ditugu. Emaitzek, oraindik ere aldarrikatutako hainbat eskubide urratzen direla ziurtatu dute; izan ere, haiekin lan egiten duten profesionalek aitortu eta salatu dute Konbentzioan jasotako zenbait eskubide urratzen direla. Hala nola, familiak intimitatea eta pribatutasuna urratu izana edo/eta erabiltzaile gehienek legezko eskubide mugaturen bat izatea.
Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practices on vaccine usage among small ruminant farmers in the Northern Region of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Md. Sodrul , Mondal Apurbo Kumar , Auwul Md. Rabiul , Islam Tahrima , Islam Obaidul , Yasmin Afroja , Al Mahmud Md. Abdullah , Haque A.K.M. Ziaul , Begum Mahmuda , Tipu Jahid Hasan , Mojumder Ysharzya , Roy Manna , Islam Md. Ashraful
Published: July 2024

Background and Aim: Small ruminants require vaccines to prevent and manage diseases. Unfortunately, no studies have been conducted in Bangladesh to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of small ruminant farmers (SRF) regarding vaccine use against infectious diseases, affecting the success of vaccination campaigns. The present study aims to assess SRF’s KAP regarding vaccines, revealing gaps and barriers to efficient vaccination.

Materials and Methods: Two hundred and twenty-eight SRF in northern Bangladesh were surveyed in a cross-sectional study. Data were collected from random participants through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. KAP levels were categorized as “good” or “poor” and “positive” or “negative” using a scoring method with a 60% cutoff. The analysis comprised the utilization of descriptive statistics as well as logistic regression models.

Results: Results showed that most participants were female (60.5%), aged 31–40 (34.2%), with secondary education (28.1%), and vaccination training (22.8%). While 75% knew about vaccines, only 37.3% understood their role in preventing infectious diseases, and 63.6% in reducing antibiotic use 68.4% of farmers were aware of negative drawbacks, and 61.8% reported vaccinating their herds. About 42.1% of the farmers had good knowledge, 52.6% had a positive attitude, and 22.8% followed good practices. Female farmers with graduate degrees and 6–10 years of goat farming experience, but not those with vaccination training, demonstrated stronger knowledge. Female farmers with a graduate degree and 6–10 years of goat farming experience displayed positive attitudes. Female goat farmers from Thakurgaon had a higher likelihood of following good vaccination practices than those with vaccination training.

Conclusion: The study unearths disparities in KAP scores among farmers. To effectively address KAP gaps concerning vaccine usage and prevent potential infectious diseases, it is essential to design focused educational and training programs. About 52.6% of SRF hold a positive view toward vaccines.

Keywords: Bangladesh, knowledge, attitudes, and practices, small ruminant farmers, vaccine use.
Fenntartható-e a digitális oktatás a klímaváltozás árnyékában?
Authors: Rausch Attila
Published: July 2024

A digitális oktatás mindennapjaink részét képezi, ma már a tanítási-tanulási folyamat során a digitális technológiai eszközökön keresztül történik az információszerzés, a tanulótársakkal, pedagógusokkal, oktatókkal való kommunikáció és együttműködés, tartalomalkotás meghatározó része. Az elmúlt időszakban pedig a mesterséges intelligencia oktatásra gyakorolt hatása került a fókuszba. Mindezek mellett kevés szó esik e felgyorsult technológiai fejlődés környezetre gyakorolt hatásáról és arról, hogy egy ilyen mértékű digitális transzformáció az oktatásban miképp lehet fenntartható. A tanulmányban áttekintem az oktatásban használt digitális eszközök és szolgáltatások környezetre gyakorolt hatásait, és bemutatom azokat a lehetőségeket, amelyekkel ezeket a hatásokat mérsékelni tudjuk, hogy a felhasználói oldalról is lépéseket tegyünk a digitális oktatás fenntarthatósága érdekében. Az oktatásnak és a digitális kompetencia fejlesztésének kulcsszerepe van az oktatási szféra fenntartható digitális transzformációjában, és fontos felhívni a figyelmet arra, hogy a környezettudatos digitáliseszköz- használatra nagyobb hangsúlyt kell fektetni az oktatás és képzések során.
„Márpedig most itt szeptember harmadikától integrálunk!”
Authors: Janó Evelin
Published: July 2024

Tanulmányomban az iskola hálózatként való működésére fókuszálok. Az iskola az első olyan társadalmi intézmény, ahol a gyerekek a mássággal találkoznak, ahol lehetőséget kaphatnak azon heterogén gyenge kötések kialakításához, amelyek hosszú távon is segíthetik a hátrányos helyzetű és roma fiatalok sikeresebb életpályáját. Kutatásomban három kutatási kérdésre kerestem a választ: 1. Mennyiben befolyásolja az integrált oktatás és összetartó osztályközösség kialakulását a pedagógusok, osztályfőnökök vélekedése, nevelési céljaik, oktatási módszereik a mindennapokban? 2. A hátrányos helyzetű és roma gyerekek osztályban elfoglalt helye, társaikkal való kapcsolatuk mutat-e elkülönült csoportalkotást vagy diszkriminációt az osztályon belül? 3. Jelen vannak-e rejtett szegregációs mechanizmusok az osztályokban az integráció mellett? Dolgozatom kvalitatív (interjú) és kvantitatív (kapcsolatháló-elemzés) kutatási módszerek vegyítésével, erősségeik felhasználásával új megközelítéssel vizsgálja a hátrányos helyzetű és roma fiatalok helyzetét, kortárskapcsolatait a társadalmi integráció szempontjából. Munkámban egy nagyvárosi szakgimnázium és szakközépiskola két osztályának mély elemzésével összehasonlító vizsgálattal kimutattam, hogy egy integráció mellett elhivatott középiskolában is vannak még megoldásra váró feladatok, illetve, hogy a pedagógusoknak nagy szerepük van az összetartó osztályközösség kialakításában, továbbá, hogy a közösség rejtett hálózatát az alapvető kapcsolatháló-elemzés módszereivel könnyen, gyorsan és a szociometriához képest pontosabban lehet vizsgálni.
Acute Pouchitis is Common in Pregnant and Postpartum Women
Authors: Kayal Maia , Gottlieb Zoe , Glamour Benita , Ibing Susanne , Spencer Elizabeth , Dubinsky Marla C.
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION:

The impact of pregnancy on the development of pouchitis in women who have undergone total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis is poorly understood.

METHODS:

This was a retrospective study of women with ulcerative colitis who underwent total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch anal anastomosis and subsequently became pregnant at Mount Sinai Hospital. The primary outcome was acute pouchitis during pregnancy or the postpartum period defined as symptoms of increased stool frequency and urgency treated with antibiotics.

RESULTS:

A total of 44 women with 63 pregnancies and complete data were identified. Acute pouchitis occurred in 14 pregnancies (22.2%) in 12 women and in the postpartum period of 10 pregnancies (15.9%) in 9 women. Acute pouchitis occurred more frequently in women with a history of acute pouchitis immediately before, during, or after pregnancy.

DISCUSSION:

Acute pouchitis was common during pregnancy and the postpartum period, likely due to microbial shifts. Although not statistically significant, these results provide insight into the impact of pregnancy on the risk of pouchitis and establish the framework for preconception counseling that focuses on prevention and management of pouchitis during pregnancy.
24-Hour Urinary Sodium Excretion Is Associated With Increased Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Jiayi , Liao Yangjie , Deng Minzi , Wu Xing , Wang Xiaoyan , Li Jingbo
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION:

This study builds on previous research and its limitations, which indicate the need for further investigation in prospective cohorts. Our aim was to explore the association between estimated 24-hour urinary sodium excretion (indicative of daily sodium consumption) and the occurrence of pancreatic cancer in the UK Biobank's large prospective cohort.

METHODS:

Using the INTERSALT equation, the study computed estimated 24-hour urinary sodium excretion by analyzing the baseline spot urine sodium measurements of 434,372 individuals enrolled in the UK Biobank. Pancreatic cancer cases were identified through UK cancer registries. Adjusted Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between estimated 24-hour urinary sodium excretion and the risk of pancreatic cancer.

RESULTS:

Over a median follow-up period of 13.8 years, 1,765 cases of pancreatic cancer were detected. The multivariable adjusted Cox model showed that each 1-gram rise in estimated 24-hour urinary sodium excretion corresponded to a 1.12 HR for incident pancreatic cancer (95% CI: 1.03, 1.22). The estimated HR for 24-hour urinary sodium excretion in binary form was 1.23 (95% CI: 1.05, 1.44). Compared with the lowest group, the group with the highest estimated 24-hour urinary sodium excretion exhibited an HR of 1.38 (95% CI: 1.21, 1.58).

DISCUSSION:

These results propose an association between elevated sodium consumption and a heightened risk of pancreatic cancer. Further validation and exploration of potential mechanisms are warranted.
Predicting Response to Neuromodulators or Prokinetics in Patients With Suspected Gastroparesis Using Machine Learning: The “BMI, Infectious Prodrome, Delayed GES, and No Diabetes” Model
Authors: Takakura Will , Surjanhata Brian , Nguyen Linda Anh Bui , Parkman Henry P. , Rao Satish S.C. , McCallum Richard W. , Schulman Michael , Wo John Man-Ho , Sarosiek Irene , Moshiree Baha , Kuo Braden , Hasler William L. , Lee Allen A.
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Pharmacologic therapies for symptoms of gastroparesis (GP) have limited efficacy, and it is difficult to predict which patients will respond. In this study, we implemented a machine learning model to predict the response to prokinetics and/or neuromodulators in patients with GP-like symptoms.

METHODS:

Subjects with suspected GP underwent simultaneous gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) and wireless motility capsule and were followed for 6 months. Subjects were included if they were started on neuromodulators and/or prokinetics. Subjects were considered responders if their GP Cardinal Symptom Index at 6 months decreased by ≥1 from baseline. A machine learning model was trained using lasso regression, ridge regression, or random forest. Five-fold cross-validation was used to train the models, and the area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC-ROC) was calculated using the test set.

RESULTS:

Of the 150 patients enrolled, 123 patients received either a prokinetic and/or a neuromodulator. Of the 123, 45 were considered responders and 78 were nonresponders. A ridge regression model with the variables, such as body mass index, infectious prodrome, delayed gastric emptying scintigraphy, no diabetes, had the highest AUC-ROC of 0.72. The model performed well for subjects on prokinetics without neuromodulators (AUC-ROC of 0.83) but poorly for those on neuromodulators without prokinetics. A separate model with gastric emptying time, duodenal motility index, no diabetes, and functional dyspepsia performed better (AUC-ROC of 0.75).

DISCUSSION:

This machine learning model has an acceptable accuracy in predicting those who will respond to neuromodulators and/or prokinetics. If validated, our model provides valuable data in predicting treatment outcomes in patients with GP-like symptoms.
Relationship between Financial Performance and Ownership Structure on Sustainability Disclosure in SRI-KEHATI Index Firms
Authors: Ayu Anggarsari  , Prasojo
Published: July 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of profitability, liquidity, profitability, institutional ownership, managerial ownership, and foreign ownership on the disclosure of sustainability reports.
Methodology: This study uses a quantitative approach with panel data analysis. The sample selection used a purposive sampling technique and obtained 15 samples of companies listed in the SRI-KEHATI index from 2017-2021.
Findings: The study results show that profitability, liquidity, institutional ownership, and managerial ownership do not affect the disclosure of sustainability reports. Foreign ownership has a negative effect on the disclosure of sustainability reports.
Novelty: The novelty of this study is the research focus which analyzes the completeness of disclosing sustainability reports from companies with ESG principles, namely companies listed on the SRI-KEHATI index. In addition, the focus of the independent variables used is financial performance, which is proxied by profitability and liquidity, and ownership structure, which is proxied by institutional ownership, managerial ownership, and foreign ownership.
Pedagogical Models in Teachers’ Education on the Use of Technology for English Teaching: A Systematic Review
Authors: Camacho Vásquez Gonzalo , Díaz Pareja Elena María , Ortega Tudela Juana María
Published: July 2024

The incorporation of Information and Communication Technologies to education is a fact in the con-ception of future teaching and learning methodologies. In the field of English Teaching, this integra-tion becomes an opportunity to move students closer to the culture and authentic target language registers. Remote Learning and Teaching for Emergency during Pandemic Times has revealed the potential of students and teacher to learn and adapt to new technologies; however, it has also expo-sed the urgent necessity of designing training programs that prepare educators to incorporate digital tools into their didactics. This review revises studies that present pedagogical and methodological models to train educators in the use of ICT for teaching, specifically for English Language Teaching, and those models that intend to affect Teachers’ Digital Competence. This qualitative synthesis, which arises from publications issued from 2016 to 2022, allows the author to describe the current state of the issue, and to provide recommendations for the creation of pedagogical or didactic designs to train teachers in the use of ICT for ELT.
Malevolent creativity and civil security: The ambivalence of emergent technologies
Authors: Gazos Alexandros , Madeira Octavia , Plattner Georg , Röller Tim , Büscher Christian
Published: July 2024

The characteristics of new technologies can cause significant harm to society. This does not only apply to unintended consequences, but even more so when the technologies are used for malicious purposes. The latter can be observed in the domain of civil security. Here, negative developments such as social polarization, increasing radicalization, and democratic regression alongside a deteriorating security situation are increasingly associated with technological innovation and malevolent creativity. As society becomes more and more aware of such correlations, technology assessment is called upon to provide orientation knowledge. This requires appropriate approaches and knowledge tools to assess the potential role of technology in relation to radicalization and political extremism.
TA for human security: Aligning security cultures with human security in AI innovation
Authors: Sinozic-Martinez Tanja , Jahnel Jutta
Published: July 2024

This research article addresses the growing concerns about digital technologies and artificial intelligence and their impact on human security. It explores the inadequacies of current digital technology regulation in protecting fundamental human rights. The authors present a typology of three “security cultures for digital technology” based on Mary Kaldor’s work on human security, linking international relations and critical security studies with technology assessment (TA). The following cultures are distinguished: dual use, cybersecurity, and TA. The article concludes with a call for collaborative efforts among policy makers, industry, and civil society to prioritize a human-centered approach and global cooperation mechanisms and to strengthen the TA culture in order to address AI innovation without compromising human rights.
The commission of crimes using autonomous weapon systems: Issues of causation and attribution
Authors: Tzoufis Vasilios , Petropoulos Nikolaos
Published: July 2024

Today’s military takes advantage of technological progress primarily through developments in the war industry. Of particular importance is the development and use of advanced autonomous weapon systems, which are changing the way conflicts are fought and redefining the basic strategies on the modern battlefield. The use of these systems raises ethical, philosophical, and legal questions about the relationship of causality and attribution that must exist between an act and its criminal result.
ELSI-Forschende für technische Innovationen in der Pflege: Perspektiven zwischen kritischer Distanz und anwendungsbezogener Einflussnahme
Authors: Beume Daniel Peter , Matsuzaki Hironori , Schön Isabel , Ziegler Sven , Häfner Luisa , Jansen Mareike Tabea
Published: July 2024

This article presents the results of a self-reflective analysis of the role of research on ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) in projects that aim to develop and implement technology solutions for care. Four perspectives of ELSI research are used to examine their significance for this endeavor: (1) ELSI research as a ‘contribution to promoting acceptance,’ (2) ELSI research as a ‘seal of approval for new technologies,’ (3) ELSI research as ‘distanced-critical observation,’ (4) ELSI research as a ‘component of integrated research’. It becomes clear that these perspectives differ according to how they cope with the tension between the demands of a scientifically sound self-image and the fulfillment of practical and normative requirements of the field of investigation. Insights into these differences provide clues for the design of ELSI research that can self-critically reflect on its mediating role in the transfer of knowledge between technology development and technology use.
Limitación del despacho a consumo de cigarrillos durante un periodo determinado y tipo impositivo en el Impuesto especial sobre las labores del tabaco. El caso portugués (As. C 96/22)
Authors: Fernández de Buján y Arranz Antonio
Published: July 2024

En el presente asunto C-96/22 Companhia de Distribuição Integral Logista Portugal SA contra Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira, el Supremo Tribunal de Portugal formula al Tribunal de Justicia una petición de decisión prejudicial relativa a la interpretación del artículo 34 TFUE y de los artículos 7 y 9 de la Directiva 2008/118/CE. En concreto, se plantea la cuestión relativa a si es compatible con la Directiva 2008/118 un régimen fiscal nacional en virtud del cual las cantidades de cigarrillos que superen el límite cuantitativo de despacho a consumo previsto en dicho régimen tributan al tipo impositivo vigente en una fecha posterior a la del despacho a consumo. La formulación clara e incondicional del artículo 7, apartado 1, de la Directiva 2008/118, así como la inexistencia de remisiones al Derecho de los Estados miembros, junto con la función central de esta disposición para realizar la finalidad armonizadora de la Directiva, abogan de forma clara en mi opinión, en favor de una interpretación según la cual esa disposición se opone a una norma nacional que establezca el devengo del impuesto especial en un momento distinto del despacho a consumo.
Bioética como espaço de resolução de conflitos étnicos e sociais
Authors: Torre Javier de la
Published: July 2024

A obra intitulada Bioética como espaço de resolução de conflitos étnicos e sociais reúne esforços de bioeticistas e pesquisadores nacionais e internacionais com o propósito de analisar como a bioética, enquanto ciência interdisciplinar, representa um espaço privilegiado de compreensão, enfrentamento e resolução de conflitos em torno das questões étnicas e sociais. Trata-se, desse modo, de trazer ao debate realidades invisibilizas de nossas sociedades, como as questões de igualdade de gênero, discriminação, racismo, xenofobia, diversidade cultural, religiosa, tanto em sua dimensão individual, como coletiva e institucional. O olhar diferenciado da bioética, as posições claras e corajosas dos autores em relação aos temas, o diálogo com os pensadores da tradição bioética, faz com que essa obra renove os ideais e propósitos dos pioneiros da bioética, mantendo vivos os desejos de se viver em sociedades mais justas, inclusivas e respeitosas para todos os cidadãos. É a bioética em seu compromisso como ética aplicada, e como ética implicada na realidade.
Engaging Student Teachers with Evidence
Authors: Firth Jonathan , Salehjee Saima
Published: July 2024

In society, rights and well-being are threatened by misinformation. The next generation of teachers will be responsible for progressing evidence-based thinking in schools. In this context, it is useful to find out more about student teachers’ engagement with evidence during their training. This interview study aimed to investigate barriers to student teachers’ evidence engagement, and ways to overcome these barriers, from the perspective of the teacher trainers who work with them. Our findings suggested that trainees are more motivated to engage with research if they see it as a norm and expectation of the job, if engagement is structured in ways that meet their needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness (Ryan & Deci, 2017), and if it is prompted and encouraged by simple nudges. We discuss how promoting research engagement can contribute to education’s current and future challenges, and suggest evidence-based pedagogy as a valuable route forward.
Diagnostic significance of immunological parameters in predicting the development of pneumonia in adult patients with measles
Authors: Riabokon O. V. , Bilokobyla S. O. , Korniienko O. O. , Riabokon Yu. Yu. , Vynokurova A. V.
Published: July 2024

The aim of the study is to determine the diagnostic significance of immunological parameters in predicting the development of pneumonia in adult patients with measles.
Material and methods. The study examined 88 patients aged 21 to 55 years diagnosed with measles according to the World Health Organization’s criteria (2013). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine IgG levels to the measles virus (Vircell Microbiologists, Spain) and the levels of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) (Invitrogen, Austria). Statistical analysis was conducted using Statistica 13 for Windows (StatSoft Inc., No. JPZ804I382130ARCN10-J).
Results. According to the results of the study, it was found that upon hospitalization on the 4.8 ± 0.2 day of the disease, 71.6 % of patients were seropositive for IgG to measles virus. The development of measles pneumonia was associated with the lowest level of IgG to measles virus (p < 0.01). When the level of IgG to measles virus at hospitalization of adult patients was ≤20.26 optical units, the probability of developing measles pneumonia was significant (AUC = 0.650, p = 0.016).
In adult patients with measles, the serum IFN-γ level at the height of the disease was higher (p < 0.05) than in healthy individuals. Upon hospitalization on the 4.8 ± 0.2 day of the disease, the level of IFN-γ in the setting of pneumonia was the highest (p < 0.05), exceeding the corresponding parameter in patients without complications. The level of IFN-γ at hospitalization >1.90 pg/ml was diagnostic for predicting the likelihood of pneumonia (AUC = 0.643, p = 0.038).
The authors present their clinical observation, which demonstrates the informative value of using the established immunological parameters in clinical practice to predict the likelihood of pneumonia in adult patients with measles.
Conclusions. The diagnostic significance of such immunological parameters as IgG to measles virus and IFN-γ in predicting the development of pneumonia in adult patients with measles at the time of hospitalization has been proved. Our clinical observation demonstrates the informativeness of the established prognostic markers.
Epidemiology of pancreatic cancer in Ukraine and Zaporizhzhia region
Authors: Shyshkin M. A. , Kabachenko V. O.
Published: July 2024

The aim of the work is to analyze the incidence and mortality of pancreatic cancer (PC) in Ukraine and the Zaporizhzhia region to highlight and compare the organization of oncological care, the benefits of prevention, and early diagnosis of this disease.
Materials and methods. The analysis of the data of the National Cancer Registry of Ukraine for 2014–2022 was carried out. The information used in the research was reviewed and approved by the Commission on Bioethics of Zaporizhzhia State Medical and Pharmaceutical University, an extract from protocol No. 10 dated 12/21/2023. The data analysis was carried out using Microsoft Excel spreadsheets and the applied statistical program Statistica® for Windows 13.0 (StatSoft Inc., USA, license No. JPZ804I382130ARCN10-J).
Results. According to GLOBOCAN data (2022), RP ranks 14th in the world and 12th in Ukraine in morbidity and is one of the leading causes of mortality. Every year there is an increase in cases of this pathology. Morbidity and mortality rates are significantly higher in countries with a high level of development, while the survival rate does not reveal such a dependence. Mortality from PC in Ukraine is 76.9–82.3 %, in the Zaporizhzhia region 86.2–99.5 % with positive dynamics. Detection of early stages of PC in Ukraine and the Zaporizhzhia region is at the level of 26.0–36.4 %, 30.7–43.6 %, respectively, diagnosis of advanced stages is at the level of 43.8–56.3 % across Ukraine, in the Zaporizhzhia region – 58.6–63.2 %. In Ukraine, 25.3–31.9 % of primary patients are covered by special treatment, the regional indicator is 17.9–26.6 % with positive dynamics. The effectiveness of primary prevention of PC in Ukraine reaches 3.3 %, the regional indicator does not exceed 3.0 %.
Conclusions. Improvement of preventive measures, selection of groups at risk of development of PC, modification of lifestyle are factors for improvement of prognosis and survival of patients with PC.
Study of the ascorbic acid accumulation in Thymus L. genus species of Ukraine flora
Authors: Mazulin O. V. , Steshenko Ya. M. , Fukleva L. A. , Mazulin H. V.
Published: July 2024

The Thymus L. genus species are extremely widespread in temperate countries and number up to 200 main wild plants, of which up to 50 have been identified in the modern Ukraine flora. Extracts from the official species of the Thymus L. genus are part of effective herbal preparations with pronounced anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities. A promising direction of modern phytochemical research is the determination of the presence and accumulation of biologically active ascorbic acid in the herbs of widespread wild and cultivated species of the Thymus L. genus.
The aim of the work is to determine the presence and accumulation of biologically active L-ascorbic acid in the herbs of four widespread wild and cultivated species of the Thymus L. genus of Ukraine flora using thin layer chromatography (TLC) and spectrophotometry methods during vegetation season.
Materials and methods. The research used herbs of four widespread wild and cultivated species of the Thymus L. genus of Ukraine flora during the growing season (June – August 2023). The presence and quantitative content of ascorbic acid were determined by TLC on a “Biostep” CD 60 densitometer (Germany) and spectrophotometry on a “Lambda 365’ device (USA).
Results. TLC and spectrophotometry methods were used to determine the presence and quantitative content of ascorbic acid in the herbs of four widespread Thymus L. genus species of Ukraine flora during the growing season. Accumulation of the compound was higher during flowering of cultivated species than wild plants. For the herbs Thymus vulgaris L. up to 39.10 ± 3.88 mg%; Th. x citriodorus (Pers.) Schreb. var. “Silver Queen” up to 36.19 ± 3.59 mg%.
Conclusions. Considering the results obtained by TLC and spectrophotometry methods, it can be concluded that the determination of ascorbic acid presence and content in the Thymus L. species genus herbs is appropriate for obtaining cosmetology preparations with pronounced anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and regenerating activity for normal and problem skin.
Investigation and numerical simulation study on the vertical bearing mechanism of large-diameter overlength piles in water-enriched soft soil areas
Authors: Liang Huayan , Wang Zhi , Zhao Biao , Xu Yan , Li Zheng , Ding Xuanming
Published: July 2024

With the development of urbanization, there is an increasing demand for higher land utilization rates, leading to the emergence of high-rise residential and commercial complexes. Additionally, in coastal areas, the presence of soft soil and low bearing capacity of the foundation necessitate higher foundation bearing capacity. Large-diameter, super-long piles have been widely employed in engineering projects to address these challenges effectively. This study analyzes their vertical bearing characteristics through field load tests and determines vertical load distribution and transfer mechanisms by using Brillouin Optical Time Domain Reflectometry. A numerical computation and analysis method based on PLAXIS 3D was established, examining the effects of parameters such as pile diameter, length, and soil modulus on the vertical bearing characteristics. Results indicate that large-diameter, super-long piles mainly bear loads through side friction, with the tip bearing less load. As load levels increase, axial force increases linearly above 40 m depth and becomes nonlinear below. Frictional resistance is significant below 40 m at 3,700 kN load. Parameter analysis shows that increasing pile length and diameter enhances bearing capacity, suggesting this method to improve pile foundation capacity in engineering.
Performance repair of building materials using alumina and silica composite nanomaterials with electrodynamic properties
Authors: Ni Dingyu , Lu Shengliang , Cai Feng
Published: July 2024

In recent years, the service life of building materials has become the focus of attention. Among them, the service life of concrete and steel bars is particularly affected by the corrosion of external ions (such as Cl−) in the environment. To solve this problem, a new type of composite nanocolloid was prepared through a controllable preparation method. The composite nanocolloid is prepared from aluminum chloride sol and silica sol as raw materials. The prepared colloidal particles have a particle size distribution between 10.5 and 17.5 nm, exhibiting excellent stability and dispersibility. In order to verify the improvement effect of the composite nanocolloid on the properties of building materials, the influence of it on the porosity of concrete and the anti-corrosion performance of steel bars was experimentally studied. The results indicate that the moisture absorption and dehumidification speed of concrete treated with composite nano colloids is slower, and the pore size distribution is mainly concentrated in 100–1,000 nm, indicating that the colloids can effectively optimize the pore structure of concrete. In addition, the processed steel plate samples showed high AC impedance values and low corrosion current logarithmic values in electrochemical testing, indicating that composite nanocolloids have a significant protective effect on the corrosion of steel bars, which can effectively improve the performance of building materials and extend their service life.
Investigating the adsorption mechanism of zinc chloride-modified porous carbon for sulfadiazine removal from water
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , Zhang Lulu , Cao Tingting , Zhang Haiou , Sun Yingying , Wang Yingguo , Yang Chenxi , Hu Yantao
Published: July 2024

Sulfadiazine (SDZ) is a commonly used antibiotic in medicine, aquaculture, and animal husbandry. However, its misuse has resulted in its release into soil and water environments, posing a gradual threat to the environment and human health. In this study, cotton pulp, poplar sawdust, and corn stover were chosen as raw materials. Zinc chloride (ZnCl2) was used as a modifier to prepare modified porous carbon through pyrolysis at different carbonization temperatures (400 and 800°C). The objective was to investigate the adsorption effect and mechanism of modified porous carbon on SDZ in aqueous environments, as well as the effect of different biomass fractions of the carbon source on the adsorption effect. The physical and chemical properties of the modified porous carbon were characterized by various means of characterization, and the results showed that the high temperature and modification effects made the adsorbent material possess a larger specific surface area and richer pore structure, higher aromaticity, higher degree of graphitization, etc., which would be beneficial for the adsorption of SDZ. Among them, CCPZ800 showed the highest saturation adsorption of SDZ, Q
max = 425.45 mg/g. The adsorption experiments were carried out by changing the initial conditions and fitted with kinetic and isothermal adsorption to further explain the adsorption mechanism of modified porous carbon on SDZ in conjunction with the adsorption of SDZ by hydrothermal carbon materials. The results showed that the adsorption of modified porous carbon on SDZ conformed to the quasi-secondary kinetic and Freundlich isothermal adsorption models. Adsorption mechanism of SDZ on modified porous carbon followed a multimolecular layer adsorption, with chemical adsorption being the dominant process. Both physical adsorption and chemical adsorption occurred simultaneously, with the main adsorption mechanism being π–π conjugation. In addition, compositional distribution of biomass from different carbon sources results in variations in pyrolysis mode and pyrolysis products, which in turn affect adsorption. By analyzing the effect of variability in the composition of biomass on the adsorption effect of SDZ, it can be concluded that higher cellulose content in the carbon source leads to a better adsorption effect of SDZ. The study showcases the effectiveness of ZnCl2-modified porous carbon in removing SDZ from water, offering insights into the selection of raw materials for this adsorbent preparation.