bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Societal Change
Authors: Marks John
Published: January 2025

The author describes his experiences building bridges between Tutsis and Hutus in Burundi through the organization that he founded, Search for Common Ground. He describes how he implemented the practice of societal conflict resolution.
A new trapdoor spider of the genus Actinopus (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Actinopodidae) from Argentina
Authors: RÍOS-TAMAYO DUNIESKY , GOLOBOFF PABLO A.
Published: January 2025

A small species of the spider genus Actinopus Perty 1833 from Copo National Park in Argentina is described—Actinopus chilikuti sp. nov. The new species belongs to a small group that in Argentina previously comprised three morphologically homogeneous species. Detailed morphological descriptions of both sexes, illustrations and geographic distribution of the new species are presented.
Changes in Equatorial Kelvin Wave Activity in the Upper Troposphere and Lower Stratosphere Associated with Interannual Variability of the Upper-Tropospheric Equatorial Zonal Wind
Authors: Suzuki Junko , Nishi Noriyuki , Fujiwara Masatomo , Yoneyama Kunio
Published: January 2025

We investigate the influence of the background wind regime on interannual variability in equatorial Kelvin waves (including both freely propagating ones and convectively coupled ones) in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere using the ERA5 reanalysis data. We focus on variability in the number of Kelvin wave cases as a function of the background westerly wind that controls wave propagation, given by the zonal wind index (ZWI) in the equatorial eastern Pacific that is a measure of the strength of the upper branch of the Walker circulation in the Western Hemisphere. The ZWI correlates well with sea surface temperature in the Niño-3.4 region, though one-third of the peaks of negative ZWI (weak westerly) cases occur during seasons other than December–February which is the typical El Niño season. In the positive ZWI (stronger westerly) cases, both the convective activity over the western Pacific and the extratropical Rossby wave activity over the central and eastern Pacific are enhanced. Kelvin waves over the Western Hemisphere appear frequently at 200 hPa but barely reach 100 hPa due to the strong westerly wind below this level that prohibits upward wave propagation. In the negative ZWI period, the number of Kelvin wave cases at 200 hPa decreases due to weaker convection; Kelvin waves reach 100 hPa and propagate even further upward into the stratosphere. The increasing (decreasing) tendency of Kelvin waves already starts 6 months before the weakest (strongest) westerly wind month in the Western Hemisphere (i.e., the ENSO peak seasons).

Significance Statement

Equatorial Kelvin waves play a critical role in the upward transport of momentum driving the equatorial stratospheric circulation. Our results reveal that background winds in the upper troposphere and the lower stratosphere act as a filter for equatorial Kelvin waves, regulating the number of their packets propagating upward. An investigation of the role of Kelvin wave dissipation in the westerly duct region, i.e., in the upper troposphere over the equatorial eastern Pacific, is needed.
Relationship Between Intimate Partner Violence and Quality of Life Among Women With Chronic Diseases: Mediating and Moderating Role of Sense of Coherence
Authors: Bagherzadeh Razieh , Gharibi Tayebeh , Nik Azemat Sayad , Vahedparast Hakimeh
Published: January 2025

This study examined the mediating and moderating roles of the sense of coherence (SOC) on the relationship between intimate partner violence (IPV) and quality of life (QOL) in women with chronic diseases. Structural equation modeling was conducted on data from 400 women with chronic diseases. The moderating effect was not statistically significant. The mediating model indicates that SOC partially mediates the relationship between IPV and both mental (direct effect = −0.313; indirect effect = −0.147) and physical (direct effect = −0.258; indirect effect = −0.100) QOL. IPV, both directly and indirectly through a negative impact on SOC, reduces QOL among women with chronic diseases.
Cost-effectiveness of camrelizumab plus rivoceranib versus sorafenib as first-line treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zou Huimin , Lai Yunfeng , Chen Xianwen , Ung Carolina Oi Lam , Hu Hao
Published: January 2025

Background:

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally. Recent advancements in targeted therapies have improved outcomes for advanced HCC, yet therapeutic options remain limited. The CARES-310 trial demonstrated that camrelizumab plus rivoceranib significantly improves survival compared to sorafenib for advanced HCC.

Objectives:

This study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of camrelizumab plus rivoceranib as a first-line treatment for unresectable HCC from the Chinese health system perspective.

Design:

The cost-effectiveness analysis.

Methods:

A partitioned survival model was constructed to estimate clinical and economic outcomes for patients with unresectable or metastatic HCC. The model included three health states: progression-free, progression disease, and death. The hypothetical cohort consisted of patients aged ⩾18 with HCC who had not received systemic therapy, reflecting the CARES-310 trial. Clinical data were derived from the CARES-310 trial and extrapolated using standard parameter distributions. Direct medical costs and utilities were sourced from the CARES-310 trial and published literature.

Results:

The 10-year cost of camrelizumab plus rivoceranib was higher than sorafenib (USD 28,148.01 vs USD 20,997.86). Camrelizumab plus rivoceranib yielded an additional 0.26 quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) with an incremental cost of USD 7150.15, resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of USD 27,633.75/QALY. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the base-case results.

Conclusion:

Camrelizumab plus rivoceranib is likely a cost-effective first-line treatment for unresectable HCC from a Chinese health system perspective. This study highlights the need for additional real-world data to validate these findings and guide clinical decision-making for HCC.
Remittance Inflow and Economic Growth Linkage in Sub-Saharan Africa Using the System GMM Analysis
Authors: Ergano Temesgen Yaekob , Rao Sure Pulla
Published: January 2025

This article explores the influence of remittances on economic development in the region, focusing on their effects on savings (SAV), remittance inflows, the monetary base and overall economic growth from 1998 to 2022. This study employs the system generalised method of moments to analyse the impact of remittances on economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). It examines the connection between remittances and important economic factors, such as real gross domestic product (RGDP), money supply (M2) and government expenditure (GEX). Through empirical analysis, it is found that remittances positively influence key economic indicators such as RGDP, money supply (IBM) and GEX. The results suggest that remittances contribute to enhancing domestic SAV and investment, thereby stimulating economic growth. The results emphasise the significance of remittances as a crucial source of external funding for Sub-Saharan African nations, showcasing their ability to promote sustainable development and alleviate poverty in the region.
“But Money Makes It Real!”: Problematizing Capitalist Logic in Project-Based Learning
Authors: Fine Sarah M.
Published: January 2025

In an effort to boost engagement while also nurturing 21st century skills such as collaboration and critical thinking, a growing number of U.S. public schools have expanded opportunities for students to engage in applied learning experiences via projects. This conceptual article explores the under-examined relationship between such experiences and the logic of neoliberal capitalism. The author explores how project-based learning, despite its potential as a lever for equity, sometimes takes up neoliberal capitalist tropes such as individualism, competition, profit maximization, the commodification of learner-made artifacts, and market-based solutions to social problems. The article suggests that until the field embraces approaches to project-based learning which include a Freirian emphasis on criticality and praxis, capitalist logic will persist as a mechanism by which “real world” learning can perpetuate all-too-real systems of oppression.
Genomic and epidemiological analysis of SARS-CoV-2 variants isolated in Guinea: a routine sequencing implementation
Authors: Mbaye Aminata , Diallo Haby , Gnimadi Thibaut Armel Cherif , Kadio Kadio Jean Jacques Olivier , Soumah Abdoul Karim , Koivogui Joel Balle , Monemou Jean Louis , Povogui Moriba Kowa , Kaba Djiba , Hounmenou Castro , Serrano Laetitia , Butel Christelle , Nuñez Nicolas Fernandez , Vidal Nicole , Guichet Emilande , Delaporte Eric , Ayouba Ahidjo , Peeters Martine , Toure Abdoulaye , Keita Alpha Kabinet ,   AFROSCREEN Team
Published: January 2025

Background

Several variants of SARS-CoV-2 have a demonstrated impact on public health, including high and increased transmissibility, severity of infection, and immune escape. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the SARS-CoV-2 lineages and better characterize the dynamics of the pandemic during the different waves in Guinea.

Methods

Whole genome sequencing of 363 samples with PCR cycle threshold (Ct) values under thirty was undertaken between May 2020 and May 2023. The Illumina iSeq 100 technology was used. The sequences were then analyzed using the GeVarli pipeline to generate consensus sequences and variant calling. All sequences isolated in Guinea and available on GISAID were included in the analysis for phylogenetic tree and phylodynamic determination. Nextstain tools were used for these analyses. Statistical analysis was done using GraphPad Prism version 10.

Results

The circulation of SARS-CoV-2 in Guinea can be distributed in three different periods. The first, lasting from May to June 2020, was characterized by lineages B1 and B.1.1. The second period, from January 2021 to July 2021, was characterized by the lineages B.1.1.7 (Alpha), AY.122, B.1.1.318, R1, B.1.525 and B.1.629. The third period, between December 2021 and May 2023, was characterized by the Omicron variant, with nine subvariant majorities found. In addition, detecting variants in the period out of their circulation was documented. The importation and exportation investigation showed the strong movement viral association between Guinea and Senegal on the one hand and Guinea and Nigeria on the other.

Conclusion

In summary, this study contributes to understanding the epidemic dynamics of the disease by describing the significant variants that circulated in Guinee and the distribution of this variant in the population. It also shows the importation and exportation of the virus during the pandemic. Sub-sampling and degradation of samples for sequences were observed. Organization and collaboration between laboratories are needed for a good sample-collecting and storage system for future direction.
Assessment of older persons with multimorbidity in Norwegian primary care: a qualitative study of healthcare professionals’ experiences and preferences in fostering continuity of care
Authors: Aarønes Turid Rimereit , Taraldsen Kristin , Kvæl Linda Aimée Hartford
Published: January 2025

Background

As the population ages, more people live longer with multimorbidity. Older people with multimorbidity face diverse needs and medical conditions, increasing the risk of adverse health outcomes, and often experience fragmented healthcare. Research has called for better ways to reach, understand and care for this group to enhance care continuity. This study aimed to examine healthcare professionals’ experiences and preferences as they relate to assessments’ role in promoting care continuity for home-dwelling older patients with multimorbidity in community-based healthcare.

Methods

This qualitative study acquired qualitative data from 17 healthcare professionals from reablement teams, interdisciplinary teams, rehabilitation teams and home nursing in three Norwegian municipalities. Representing nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and social work, all participants were experienced in assessing older home-dwelling patients with multimorbidity. Semi-structured focus group and individual interviews were conducted, then the interviews were transcribed and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

The analysis elicited three themes: gaining insight beyond diagnoses to promote relational continuity, facilitating interaction to ensure informational continuity, and linking patient journeys to facilitate managerial continuity. The themes underscore the significance of evaluating patients beyond their medical conditions, emphasising assessment’s collaborative nature across disciplines. Healthcare professionals use diverse assessment methods and facilitate interaction to understand patients’ needs. Working together across different healthcare professions is key for care that includes the whole patient, but challenges such as underutilisation of assessments and poor documentation still exist. Furthermore, linking patient journeys remains difficult due to fragmented services and limited resources. Despite these challenges, assessments were viewed as crucial to care continuity.

Conclusions

In this qualitative study, healthcare professionals emphasised that assessment is a complex, continuous process due to the fluctuating health of individuals with multimorbidity. Effective instruments and diverse assessment methods are essential to understanding all aspects of patients’ health and well-being to ensure care continuity across individual, service, and system levels. Our findings highlight the need for systematic and structured use of assessments to improve interdisciplinary collaboration and personalised care for older individuals with multimorbidity. Understanding the patient journey is crucial for achieving these goals, potentially benefiting healthcare professionals, policymakers, and primary care providers.
Estimating relative risks and risk differences in randomised controlled trials: a systematic review of current practice
Authors: Thompson Jacqueline , Watson Samuel I. , Middleton Lee , Hemming Karla
Published: January 2025

Background

Guidelines for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) recommend reporting relative and absolute measures of effect for binary outcomes while adjusting for covariates. There are a number of different ways covariate-adjusted relative risks and risk differences can be estimated.

Objectives

Our goal was to identify methods used to estimate covariate-adjusted relative risk and risk differences in RCTs published in high-impact journals with binary outcomes. Other secondary objectives included the identification of how covariates are chosen for adjustment and whether covariate adjustment results in an increase in statistical precision in practice.

Methods

We included two-arm parallel RCTs published in JAMA, NEJM, Lancet, or the BMJ between January 1, 2018, and March 11, 2023, reporting relative risks or risk differences as a summary measure for a binary primary outcome. The search was conducted in Ovid-MEDLINE.

Results

Of the 308 RCTs identified, around half (49%; 95% CI: 43–54%) reported a covariate-adjusted relative risk or risk difference. Of these, 82 reported an adjusted relative risk. When the reporting was clear (n = 65, 79%), the log-binomial model (used in 65% of studies; 95% CI: 52–76%) and modified Poisson (29%; 95% CI: 19–42%) were most commonly used. Of the 92 studies that reported an adjusted risk difference, when the reporting was clear (n = 56, 61%), the binomial model (used in 48% of studies; 95% CI: 35–62%) and marginal standardisation (21%; 95% CI: 12–35%) were the common approaches used.

Conclusions

Approximately half of the RCTs report either a covariate-adjusted relative risk or risk difference. Many RCTs lack adequate details on the methods used to estimate covariate-adjusted effects. Of those that do report the approaches used, the binomial model, modified Poisson and to a lesser extent marginal standardisation are the approaches used.
Effects of biochar on soil respiration mediated by rainfall events: evidence from one-year field experiment in an urban forest
Authors: Zu Haoran , Deng Zijun , Liu Xin , Luo Junyi , Chen Ying , Yi Meiling , Wang Xiao , Liang Xiaocui , Zhang Xiang , Yan Wende
Published: January 2025

Background

Biochar is widely recognized for its capacity to capture and store carbon in soil attributed to its stable structure. However, in most field studies examining the effects of biochar application on soil respiration, the impact of rainfall events on the experimental outcomes has not been taken into account. To address the existing gap in this research field, we conducted a one-year study on soil respiration in an urban camphor forest and collected the data of soil respiration, soil temperature, soil moisture, and the rainfall events closest to the soil respiration monitoring time. We specifically examined how different stages of rainfall events influenced soil respiration in relation to biochar application.

Results

This study found that the annual average soil respiration rate increased with the doses of biochar application, and the soil respiration rate under the biochar application at the dose of 45 t/ha showed a significant rise. The stages of rainfall events, rainfall amount, and the interaction effect of the two, and biochar doses significantly affected soil respiration. The parameters in the regression model for soil respiration, soil temperature and moisture varied with the different stages of rainfall events and the doses of biochar application. The biochar application eliminated the significant effect of soil moisture on soil respiration during one day after rainfall events. The significant correlation between soil moisture and the temperature sensitivity of soil respiration (Q10) was eliminated by biochar application, both during one day after rainfall events and more than eight days after rainfall events.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that the rice straw biochar application has a short-term positive effect on soil respiration in urban camphor forests. The rainfall events affect the field soil respiration monitored in the biochar applications, possibly by affecting the soil respiration response to soil temperature and moisture under different doses of biochar application. The impact of rainfall events on soil respiration in biochar application experiments should be considered in future forest monitoring management and practice.
Simulated wind erosion and local dust deposition affect soil micro-food web by changing resource availability
Authors: Zhao Cancan , Li Yujie , Zhou Zeli , Wu Rongrong , Su Mengfei , Song Hongquan
Published: January 2025

Background

Wind erosion and dust deposition are the most common natural geological process in arid and semiarid areas. They significantly affect the redistribution of soil nutrients and ecosystem functioning and services. However, the effects of wind erosion and dust deposition on soil micro-food web are still poorly understood. Therefore, we conducted a field manipulative experiment to investigate the response of soil microbial and nematode communities, energy channels and their cascade effects to wind erosion and dust deposition in a semiarid grassland.

Results

Our results showed that wind erosion had no effect on the abundance of soil microbes and nematodes, but altered the community composition of soil food web. Wind erosion significantly increased fungivore abundance and nematode channel index, leading to a fungal-dominated energy channel, i.e., a slow energy channel. Dust deposition significantly increased soil dissolved organic carbon, microbial phospholipid fatty acids and soil nematode abundance, showing a strong bottom-up trophic cascade effect in soil food web by increasing the quantity of soil resource. Compared with control treatment, both wind erosion and dust deposition declined the complexity and stability of soil micro-food web.

Conclusions

Our findings offer new insight for exploring the effects of aeolian erosion process on soil food web, which can provide parameter estimation for accurate evaluation of the effects of wind erosion on ecosystem function.
Angel investments of small family business entrepreneurs: cross-country evidence
Authors: Fernandez Viviana
Published: January 2025

Recent literature has focused on the venture capital investments of large family firms made through their family offices. However, evidence regarding informal venture capital provided to nascent entrepreneurs by small family businesses is scant. I contribute to the literature by modeling the angel investments of about 30,000 family and non-family business entrepreneurs across 49 countries, who contributed about $64 million to businesses started by other entrepreneurs over a 3-year period. Based on this sample, I conclude that in countries with higher rates of small family businesses, angel investors are likely fewer, and the amounts invested in start-ups are also lower. Furthermore, I conclude that the owners/managers of small family businesses invest comparatively less capital in start-ups, irrespective of family relationships. I infer that this is attributable to the financing preferences of family businesses, which favor the use of internal resources for their continuity and the growth of their family capital.
Treatment outcomes of two surgical techniques in secondary reconstruction of unilateral cleft lip and ala nasi utilizing anthropometry assessment: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Humadi Ebrahim , Karkoutly Mawia , Beit Zafin Kara
Published: January 2025

Background

An orofacial cleft significantly impacts the oral health-related quality of life of children and teenagers. Secondary reconstruction is a more complex procedure due to tissue deficiency and scarring. The study aimed to evaluate the use of Pfeifer's wave-line incision method and the rotational flap method in the secondary reconstruction of unilateral lip clefts in patients with unilateral cleft lip and ala nasi aged 5–25 years utilizing anthropometry assessment.

Methods

It was a double-blinded, randomized, parallel-group, active-controlled trial with two arms. Twenty-four patients were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1: Rotational flap method. Group 2: Control group, Pfeifer's wave-line incision method. The following anthropometric measurements were considered: Lb(X):En-En: The horizontal position of the center of the cupid's bow. Ch-Lt(l:r): The distance between the cheilion and the tip of the cupid’s bow. Lt-Lb(l:r): The length of the cupid’s bow. Lt(Y)(l:r): The size of the upper lip. Lt-Lt'(l:r): The height of the vermilion at the tip of the cupid's bow. Photographs were performed according to the follow-up periods: At the baseline and before surgery (t0). Immediately after surgery (t1). Two weeks after surgery (t2). Six months after surgery (t3).

Results

The rotational flap method did not outperform Pfeifer’s method in the studied anthropometric measurements. In the rotational flap method group, there was a significant improvement in the mean value of Ch-Lt(l:r) from t0 (1.156 ± 0.206) to t3 (0.962 ± 0.098), and in the average value of Lt(Y)(l:r) from t0 (0.944 ± 0.023) to t3 (0.990 ± 0.011) (p < 0.05). In Pfeifer’s method group, the mean value of Ch-Lt(l:r) was (1.141 ± 0.158) at t0, and then improved to become (1.007 ± 0.084) at t3 (p < 0.05), the average value of Ch-Lt(l:r) at t0 was (0.942 ± 0.026), which improved to (0.991 ± 0.012) at t3, and the average value of Lt-Lt'(l:r) increased from t0 (1.308 ± 1.174) to t3 (1.050 ± 0.054) (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Pfeifer's wave-line incision and rotational flap methods achieve similar aesthetic results in the appearance of the lip or Cupid's bow after a 6-month follow-up.

Trial registration

ISRCTN registry, ISRCTN36320776, registered 06 November 2024.
President's Page: Measuring success in SEG publications
Authors: Spikes Kyle
Published: January 2025

As one might expect, this President's Page is about publications. I thought I would take some time to highlight the success of our publications and encourage all readers to be involved in one or more ways in the publication process. We as SEG members view our publications as being among our most valued assets. With the variety of content in our journals, we provide information on cutting-edge research and technology in applied geophysics as well as relevant trade and consumer information.
Adjuvant Dose-Dense Chemotherapy in Hormone Receptor–Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Metzger Filho Otto , Ballman Karla , Campbell Jordan , Liu Minetta , Ligibel Jennifer , Watson Mark , Chen Eveline , Du Lili , Stover Daniel , Carey Lisa , Partridge Ann , Kirshner Jeffrey , Muss Hyman , Hudis Clifford , Winer Eric P. , Norton Larry , Symmans W. Fraser
Published: January 2025

PURPOSE

In light of evolving evidence that some patients with node-positive estrogen receptor–positive (ER+) disease may receive less benefit from chemotherapy, this study reports 12-year outcomes of the C9741 trial overall, and by the sensitivity to endocrine therapy (SET2,3) test index, a biomarker measuring endocrine transcriptional activity, to identify patients most likely to benefit from dose-dense chemotherapy.

METHODS

In all, 1,973 patients were randomly assigned to dose-dense versus conventional chemotherapy. Hazard ratios (HRs) for prognosis and for predictive interaction with chemotherapy schedule were estimated from Cox models of long-term disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). SET2,3 was tested on the 682 banked RNA samples from ER+ cancers.

RESULTS

Dose-dense chemotherapy improved DFS in the overall study population by 23% (HR, 0.77 [95% CI, 0.66 to 0.90]) and OS by 20% (HR, 0.80 [95% CI, 0.67 to 0.95]); the benefits of dose-dense therapy were seen for ER+ and ER-negative subsets, without significant interaction between treatment arm and ER status. Low SET2,3 status was highly prognostic, but also predicted improved outcomes from dose-dense chemotherapy (interaction
P
= .0998 for DFS; 0.027 for OS), independent of menopausal status. Specifically, low endocrine transcriptional activity predicted benefit from dose-dense chemotherapy, whereas tumor burden and proliferation-driven signatures for molecular subtype classification did not.

CONCLUSION

At 12-year follow-up, C9741 confirmed the sustained long-term benefit of adjuvant dose-dense chemotherapy for node-positive breast cancer. SET2,3 identified patients with ER+ breast cancer who benefited from dose-dense chemotherapy, and specifically, this benefit was predicted by low endocrine activity in the cancer, rather than tumor burden, molecular subtype, or menopausal status.
Toward Functional Biomarkers of Response to Neoadjuvant Oncolytic Virus in Stage II Melanoma: Immune-Förster Resonance Energy Transfer and the Dynamic Tumor Immune Microenvironment
Authors: Kirane Amanda R. , Lee David , Lowe Michael , Ahmad M. Usman , Sharma Saurabh , Serasanambati Mamatha , Applebee Christopher J. , Safrygina Elena , Betof Warner Allison , Wang Jennifer , Le Stephanie , Larijani Banafshé , Maverakis Emanual
Published: January 2025

PURPOSE

Despite the effectiveness of immunotherapy in advanced melanoma, the lack of clinically reliable biomarkers hinders precision medicine approaches. This study investigates the potential of immune time-resolved Förster resonance energy transfer (iFRET) as a novel tool for understanding immunotherapy response in melanoma.

METHODS

Using tissue from a pilot phase II study of neoadjuvant talimogene laherparepvec (TVEC) before standard surgery, we explore iFRET's ability to assess PD-L1:PD-1 interactions in the tumor immune microenvironment (TiME) pre- and post-therapy.

RESULTS

Responsive tumors demonstrated significant increases in iFRET efficiency, diverging from nonresponsive tumors that either decreased in checkpoint engagement or failed to demonstrate immune stimulation with therapy. Changes in PD-L1:PD-1 iFRET efficiency did not correlate with changes in PD-L1 expression. Instead, traditional biomarkers of PD-L1 expression and T-cell phenotyping did not reflect response trends and demonstrated significant heterogeneity inter- and intratumorally. Importantly, tumor-associated macrophage phenotype correlated significantly with TVEC response and the significantly high PD-L1:PD-1 interaction observed in the tumor beds of complete responders.

CONCLUSION

These findings underscore both the role of innate immune profiles in immunotherapy outcomes and the potential of iFRET to serve as a critical companion diagnostic in the classification of immune profiles. This research reveals crucial insights into factors affecting checkpoint function in tumors and emphasizes the need for further investigation into cell-specific interactions within the TiME. By expanding our understanding of distinct patient profiles for tailored therapeutic strategies, we underscore the importance of assessing this type of functional biomarker data in ongoing neoadjuvant trial designs to advance the goal of precision immunotherapy in patients with melanoma.
Embolized Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Diagnosed With Transesophageal Echocardiography and a Novel Management Strategy Using a Thoracic Endovascular Aneurysm Repair Stent
Authors: Jouryyeh Basil , Beshara Michael
Published: January 2025

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a common treatment for severe aortic stenosis (AS), but it carries the risk of severe complications, including device embolization. We present a case of a TAVR valve embolization into the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT), diagnosed with transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) shortly after device deployment. The dislodged valve was successfully retrieved from the LVOT into the aorta, flattened, and stabilized with a thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR) stent, enabling the successful implantation of a new TAVR valve.
Dose-dependent effects of Nrf2 on the epidermis in chronic skin inflammation
Authors: Koch Michael , Ferrarese Luca , Ben-Yehuda Greenwald Maya , Werner Sabine
Published: January 2025

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, characterized by an impaired epidermal barrier and immunological alterations. The activity of the cytoprotective NRF2 transcription factor is reduced in the epidermis of AD patients. To determine the functional relevance of this deficiency, we used mice lacking fibroblast growth factor receptors 1 and 2 in keratinocytes (K5-R1/R2 mice), which exhibit several AD-like symptoms. Proteomics analysis of their epidermis revealed reduced Nrf2 activity. This was accompanied by an increase in DNA damage and in the number of senescent cells. Genetic deletion of Nrf2 in keratinocytes of these mice further promoted DNA damage and senescence, but time-limited pharmacological activation of Nrf2 in the skin had a mild protective effect. Surprisingly, long-term genetic activation of Nrf2 in keratinocytes of K5-R1/R2 mice caused strong hyperkeratosis, keratinocyte hyperproliferation, epidermal thickening, increased keratinocyte apoptosis and DNA damage, and altered immune cell composition. These results reveal a complex role of Nrf2 in the epidermis and show the necessity to optimize the duration and intensity of NRF2 activation for the treatment of epidermal alterations in patients with AD.
Os caminhoneiros e o preço do diesel no Brasil: é possível resolver esse imbróglio?
Authors: Costa Cláudio Rafael Mendes , Araújo Fellipe Viana de , Aguiar Tiago Lucas de Oliveira
Published: January 2025

Sr. Zé da Boleia, um conhecido caminhoneiro da cidade de Alegrelândia, tem perdido o sono nos últimos tempos ao pensar no impacto da alta desenfreada e da imprevisibilidade do preço do diesel em sua renda familiar. Preocupada com o desespero do pai, Jamile, estudante de Economia da Fundação Governador Valadares (FGV), decide recorrer à sua professora de Políticas Regulatórias, Aline Regina. Juntas, e a pedido do deputado Hugo Regulador, a estudante e a docente buscaram coletar informações que permitissem a construção de um projeto de intervenção regulatória capaz de mitigar a volatilidade e o aumento do preço do diesel no país. Após entrevistar agentes setoriais e acadêmicos, elaboraram um quadro contendo o resumo das alternativas e suas respectivas vantagens e desvantagens. Nesse contexto, o presente estudo de caso estimula o participante, que irá desenvolver uma proposta de intervenção regulatória, a refletir e discutir sobre (i) o mapeamento e o entendimento das perspectivas dos atores relevantes no âmbito de um tema a ser regulado; (ii) a intensidade da intervenção a ser proposta; (iii) a identificação das alternativas existentes, levando em consideração, inclusive, a experiência internacional; e (iv) a discriminação das vantagens, desvantagens e potenciais impactos positivos e negativos de cada alternativa avaliada.
Regulação do mercado pelo mercado: um caso de ensino sobre regulação no mercado de seguros
Authors: Alves Breno Barbosa Cerqueira , Vanderlei Sidney Cardoso , Calil Simone Saad
Published: January 2025

O presente caso trata das indicações para a composição do Conselho Diretor de um órgão regulador do setor de seguros e das mudanças regulatórias decorrentes. Nesse sentido, o caso apresenta o embate que se desenrola entre o responsável pela indicação do superintendente, Ministro Inocêncio Cansado – que apoia a formação de um Conselho Diretor mais técnico, com a indicação de Maria Assertiva Milhomem – e setores da base política de apoio ao Presidente da República, representados pelo deputado Lucas Confúcio – que apoiam a indicação de representantes do setor de seguros para a composição do Conselho Diretor, como o senhor Fávore Mercato. Ao assumir o poder, os novos integrantes do Conselho, representantes do setor regulado, prometem um intenso diálogo com o setor de seguros, abandonando a proposta da gestão anterior, que priorizava um projeto de regulação com foco nos consumidores. Propõe-se que o presente caso seja trabalhado dentro da temática de agências reguladoras e ausência de governança.
Assistentes virtuais: o caso do Programa de Transferência de Renda em Brumadinho
Authors: Mello Filho Luiz Lourenço de , Caseiro Guilherme Varallo , Andrade André de Souza Coelho Gonçalves de , Frare Irineu Rodrigues
Published: January 2025

Este artigo apresenta a proposta de um modelo para a organização da informação em bases de conhecimento voltadas a tecnologias mediadoras de comunicações entre produtores e consumidores de informação em ambientes digitais. Fundamenta-se na teoria dos Objetos de Fronteira como suporte teórico para a modelagem de assistentes virtuais (chatbots) utilizados em práticas informacionais de mediação qualificada, que empregam inteligência artificial (IA) e que são de interesse de variadas comunidades de usuários. O objetivo é disponibilizar métodos para ampliar o campo de atuação do cientista da informação, promovendo uma sinergia cada vez maior com a área de ciência de dados, tanto na modelagem informacional quanto na curadoria digital desses novos recursos tecnológicos. Como metodologia, foi adotado o estudo de caso da criação de assistente virtual para o Programa de Transferência de Renda as pessoas atingidas pelo desabamento da Barragem de Córrego do Feijão, em Brumadinho. O artigo apresenta um modelo e um protótipo funcional como prova de conceito, que viabiliza diálogos informacionais para a elaboração de soluções aplicáveis a qualquer domínio do conhecimento, partindo da construção taxonômica de intenções e fluxos conversacionais. Esses elementos permitem manter, com alto grau de assertividade, a interação entre seres humanos e máquinas, consolidando uma prática informacional alinha as novas linguagens midiáticas utilizadas pela sociedade.
Οι Νύφες του Παντελή Βούλγαρη: Το ιστορικό και κοινωνικό πλαίσιο και οι αντρικές υποκειμενικότητες
Authors: Δαμάλα Παρασκευή
Published: January 2025

Η κινηματογραφική ταινία Οι νύφες (2004) του Παντελή Βούλγαρη εξετάζει το φαινόμενο της μαζικής μετανάστευσης, εστιάζοντας σε γυναίκες από την Ελλάδα, τη Ρωσία, τη Ρουμανία και την Τουρκία που μεταναστεύουν στις Ηνωμένες Πολιτείες για να παντρευτούν άνδρες που έχουν επιλέξει μέσω φωτογραφιών. Ο στόχος τους είναι η κοινωνική και οικονομική αποκατάσταση και η υποστήριξη των οικογενειών τους. Η μελέτη αναλύει το ιστορικό και κοινωνικό πλαίσιο της ταινίας, επικεντρωμένη στην απεικόνιση των ανδρικών μορφών. Η μελέτη περιλαμβάνει μια επισκόπηση της ταινίας, με παρουσίαση των κύριων συντελεστών, της πλοκής και των πρωταγωνιστικών χαρακτήρων. Εξετάζεται το ιστορικό υπόβαθρο της κινηματογραφικής αφήγησης και το φαινόμενο της μετανάστευσης, ενώ οι ανδρικές υποκειμενικότητες αναλύονται είτε μέσω της φυσικής τους παρουσίας είτε ως ηθικοί καθοδηγητές των νυφών. Η ποιοτική μέθοδος ανάλυσης της κινηματογραφικής αφήγησης χρησιμοποιείται για την κατανόηση της γυναικείας μετανάστευσης και του ρόλου των ανδρών στην ταινία.
Η λογοκρισία στον ελληνικό κινηματογράφο. Τρεις λογοκριμένες ταινίες.
Authors: Δαμάλα Παρασκευή
Published: January 2025

Η παρούσα μελέτη εξετάζει το φαινόμενο της λογοκρισίας στον κινηματογράφο, εστιάζοντας σε τρεις συγκεκριμένες ταινίες. Αρχικά, διερευνάται η πολιτική διάσταση του κινηματογράφου, ενώ παράλληλα παρουσιάζονται παραδείγματα λογοκρισίας τόσο στον παγκόσμιο όσο και στον ελληνικό κινηματογράφο. Στη συνέχεια, αναλύονται τρεις ταινίες που υπήρξαν αντικείμενο λογοκρισίας στην Ελλάδα. Οι ταινίες που εξετάζονται είναι η Κοινωνική Σαπίλα (1932) του Στέλιου Τατασοπούλου, οι Παράνομοι (1955) του Νίκου Κούνδουρου και το Πρόσωπο με Πρόσωπο (1966) του Ροβήρου Μανθούλη.
Η ψυχική ανθεκτικότητα των μαθητών/τριών κατά τη διάρκεια της τηλεκπαίδευσης και η σύνδεσή της με την αντίληψη της σχέσης με τον/την εκπαιδευτικό του τμήματος
Authors: Μπερτσιά Βασιλική , Πούλου Μαρία
Published: January 2025

Η συγκεκριμένη εργασία εξετάζει το ζήτημα της ψυχικής ανθεκτικότητας των μαθητών μέσης και ύστερης παιδικής ηλικίας κατά τη διάρκεια της πανδημίας covid-19 και της τηλεκπαίδευσης που εφαρμόστηκε στα ελληνικά σχολεία. Αρχικά, γίνεται μια σύντομη ανάλυση της έννοιας της ψυχικής ανθεκτικότητας και της σχέσης εκπαιδευτικού-μαθητή, ενώ εν συνεχεία πραγματοποιείται αναφορά σε σχετικές μελέτες που διενεργήθηκαν κατά την περίοδο της πανδημίας σε διάφορες χώρες ανά τον κόσμο. Έπειτα, παρουσιάζονται τα ερευνητικά δεδομένα που προέκυψαν από την έρευνα αυτή στην οποία έλαβαν μέρος 576 μαθητές από δημοτικά σχολεία του νομού Ηρακλείου. Στόχος της έρευνας ήταν η συσχέτιση της ψυχικής ανθεκτικότητας των μαθητών με την αντίληψη της σχέσης με τον εκπαιδευτικό, την ψυχική ανθεκτικότητα του εκπαιδευτικού τους καθώς επίσης και με το αν οι μαθητές βιώσαν αισθήματα μοναξιάς και αν ένιωσαν ότι έχασαν κάποιους από τους φίλους τους κατά τη διάρκεια της τηλεκπαίδευσης και των περιοριστικών μέτρων. Για τον σκοπό αυτό χρησιμοποιήθηκαν τα ερωτηματολόγια Connor-Davidson resilience scale και teacher’s acceptance-rejection short scale τα οποία εξετάζουν αντίστοιχα την ψυχική ανθεκτικότητα των μαθητών (και εκπαιδευτικών) και την αντίληψη της σχέσης που έχουν οι μαθητές με τον εκπαιδευτικό τους, καθώς επίσης και κάποιες ερωτήσεις κλειστού τύπου σχετικά με τις εμπειρίες των παιδιών από την περίοδο της τηλεκπαίδευσης και των περιοριστικών μέτρων. Μέσα από την ανάλυση προέκυψαν σημαντικά ευρήματα τα οποία παρατίθενται και συνδέονται με τη σύγχρονη διεθνή βιβλιογραφία. Συγκεκριμένα, φάνηκε ότι υπάρχει στατιστικά σημαντική συσχέτιση ανάμεσα στο αίσθημα στοργής/ζεστασιάς που εισπράττουν τα παιδιά από τον εκπαιδευτικό και στα επίπεδα ψυχικής τους ανθεκτικότητας, ενώ παράλληλα η σχέση με τον εκπαιδευτικό φάνηκε να σχετίζεται με το αν βιώσαν αίσθημα μοναξιάς κατά την περίοδο της τηλεκπαίδευσης και με το αν θεωρούν ότι έχασαν κάποιους από τους φίλους τους κατά τη διάρκειά της.
Το παιχνίδι ρόλων και οι επιδράσεις του σε μάθημα προγραμματισμού υπολογιστών πρώτου εξαμήνου
Authors: Σπανουδάκης Νικόλαος , Κρασαδάκη Ευαγγελία
Published: January 2025

Το άρθρο παρουσιάζει την πιλοτική εφαρμογή ανάθεσης ρόλων σε μέλη ομαδικών εργασιών για την ανάπτυξη μιας εφαρμογής λογισμικού σε μάθημα πρώτου εξαμήνου, το οποίο προσφέρεται σε σχολή μηχανικών που δεν θεραπεύει την επιστήμη και τεχνολογία υπολογιστών. Το μάθημα εφαρμογής είναι η Μεθοδολογία Προγραμματισμού Υπολογιστών της Σχολής Μηχανικών Παραγωγής και Διοίκησης του Πολυτεχνείου Κρήτης, όπου οι πρωτοετείς έχουν χαμηλή συμμετοχή στις εξετάσεις, παρά την συμμετοχή τους στις διαλέξεις και τα εργαστήρια. Προκειμένου να ενισχυθεί η αυτοπεποίθησή τους και να δοθούν επιπλέον ευκαιρίες μάθησης, ο διδάσκων εισήγαγε τον συνδυασμό των δύο εκπαιδευτικών τεχνικών, ως μία έξτρα δυνατότητα. Οι ομάδες συγκροτήθηκαν από τέσσερα έως πέντε άτομα, ενώ οι ρόλοι που ανατέθηκαν είναι του Συντονιστή, του Αναλυτή, των Προγραμματιστών (δύο άτομα) και του Ελεγκτή. Τα  αποτελέσματα έδειξαν τη θετική σχέση μεταξύ της ομαδικής εργασίας με ρόλους και της συμμετοχής στις εξετάσεις, ενώ επιβεβαιώθηκε η διαφορά στάσεων σε σχέση με το φύλο στα μαθήματα προγραμματισμού. Επιπλέον, η ανάλυση της μαθησιακής εμπειρίας με αξιοποίηση του μοντέλου Kano, έδωσε σημαντικές πληροφορίες στον διδάσκοντα για το τι θεωρούν οι φοιτητές/τριες επιθυμητά ή ελκυστικά ή αδιάφορα χαρακτηριστικά του σχεδιασμού του μαθήματος. Αν και η ταξινόμηση των περισσοτέρων χαρακτηριστικών ως επιθυμητής ποιότητας ήταν λίγο-πολύ αναμενόμενη, η ταξινόμηση ορισμένων ως ελκυστικής ή αδιάφορης ποιότητας αποτέλεσε μια πολύτιμη ανατροφοδότηση.
Βιβλιοπαρουσίαση: Γρηγοριάδης, Α., Τσιτιρίδου-Ευαγγέλου, Μ., & Κρουσοράτη, Α. (2023). "Οικογενειακό μαθησιακό περιβάλλον: Θεωρητικές προσεγγίσεις, μέτρηση ποιότητας και καλές πρακτικές". Σοφία.
Authors: Μανωλίτσης Γεώργιος
Published: January 2025

Το βιβλίο "Οικογενειακό μαθησιακό περιβάλλον: Θεωρητικές προσεγγίσεις, μέτρηση ποιότητας και καλές πρακτικές" αποτελεί μία ολοκληρωμένη πρόταση προσέγγισης της έννοιας του οικογενειακού μαθησιακού περιβάλλοντος (home learning environment). Μέσα από θεωρητικές και ερευνητικές προσεγγίσεις αναδεικνύεται η καίρια αξία και η σπουδαιότητά του για την ολόπλευρη ανάπτυξη των παιδιών, ενώ ταυτόχρονα προτείνονται πρακτικοί τρόποι υποστήριξης και ενδυνάμωσής του. Μέσα στην παρούσα βιβλιοπαρουσίαση παρατίθενται συνοπτικά οι διαστάσεις με τις οποίες εμπλέκεται το βιβλίο για την μελέτη του οικογενειακού μαθησιακού περιβάλλοντος σε καθένα από τα εννέα κεφάλαιά του καθώς και την πρόταση των συγγραφέων για μία νέα προσέγγιση του ζητήματος αυτού, την οποία αποκαλούν ως  "Οικογενειακό Μαθησιακό Οικοσύστημα".
Impact of experience and emotional state on behavioral intentions: A study of Greek and Italian customers
Authors: Pantouvakis Angelos , Gerou Anastasia , Karakasnaki Maria
Published: January 2025

This research delves into the complex dynamics between customer experience, emotional state and behavioral intentions among Greek and Italian customers in the coastal line shipping industry. Through a large-scale survey methodology, encompassing 600 passengers, half of whom are Greek and half Italian, the study investigates how these factors intertwine and how they differ across those two examined nationalities. Employing exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses alongside regression analyses, the findings unveil a positive relationship between customer experience, emotional state, and behavioral intentions, with nationality acting as a significant moderator. This study marks the first empirical assessment of its hypotheses within the ferry context, offering valuable insights for both academics and practitioners aiming to enhance passenger satisfaction and loyalty in the transport sector.
Integrating Neuropsychology into Neuromarketing: A Comprehensive Review of Consumer Cognitive and Emotional Responses
Authors: Gkintoni Evgenia , Antonopoulou Hera , Aroutzidis Anthimos , Halkiopoulos Constantinos
Published: January 2025

This paper explores the confluence of neuropsychology and neuromarketing, emphasizing the utilization of neuropsychological insights to better comprehend consumer behavior. By employing neuroscience tools such as EEG, fMRI, and Spectroscopy, neuromarketing measures consumer responses to advertising stimuli, focusing on critical areas like attention, memory, and emotional engagement. The study also delves into executive functions—working memory, self-regulation, flexible thinking, and problem-solving—and their influence on consumer decisions. Dyspeptic syndrome's impact on behavior and tailored marketing strategies are addressed. Methodologies including EEG, eye-tracking, and biometric data analysis are discussed for optimizing advertising strategies. The paper also touches on the role of neuropsychology in enhancing business strategies, highlighting ethical considerations, technical challenges, and the potential for interdisciplinary advancements. Additionally, it reviews related studies across varied domains such as neuroleadership and big data analytics, demonstrating the broad applicability of these insights.
Identifying the eminent indicators and criteria of Sustainability Assessment Tools in Higher Education: a systematic literature review.
Authors: Xenaki Maria , Dimou Irini , Passas Ioannis
Published: January 2025

The significance of incorporating sustainability in (tourism) higher education is beyond doubt. This article aims to assess how this integration is best measured.   This objective considers two variables:  A. the indicators, referring to the questions being asked to investigate the nature of sustainability integration, and B. the criteria, referring to the organisational aspect or level at which the institute integrates sustainability. Hence, the emerging questions are: 1) What is the most appropriate set of questions that best assess sustainability integration in a Higher Education Institution? (indicators) And 2) To what department, operation, or process should this question be addressed? (criteria). The feature of the significance of the most important indicators and criteria becomes evident through the frequency of repetition. A systematic literature review regarding the sustainability assessment tools (SAT) in higher education is conducted, following PRISMA guidelines.
Fashion forward: insights into the style choices of South African Generation Y
Authors: De Klerk Natasha
Published: January 2025

Fashion is a multifaceted and dynamic phenomenon that permeates various aspects of consumption, reflecting society's constant inclination towards change. The fashion industry, a significant contributor to both global and South African economies, operates in a dynamic and fast-paced environment marked by intense competition and evolving consumer preferences. Young adult consumers, currently encompassing members of Generation Y, play a pivotal role in driving social change and shaping fashion trends, making them a crucial market segment for the fashion industry. This paper aims to explore fashion trends among South African Generation Y consumers to gain insights into their style choices for market segmentation purposes. By reviewing existing literature, this research seeks to uncover the distinctive fashion preferences and behaviours of South African Generation Y, shedding light on their conspicuous status consumption tendencies and fixation on style. Understanding the unique characteristics of this market segment will assist fashion marketers and retailers in effectively targeting and engaging Generation Y consumers in the South African fashion market.