bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A ‘good death’ needs good cooperation with health care professionals – a qualitative focus group study with seniors, physicians and nurses in Germany
Authors: Mohacsi Laura , Stange Lena , Höfig Saskia , Nebel Lisa , Broschmann Daniel , Hummers Eva , Kleinert Evelyn
Published: December 2024

Background

Studies investigating notions of a ‘good death’ tend to focus on specific medical conditions and specific groups of people. Therefore, their results are often poorly comparable, making it difficult to anticipate potential points of conflict in practice. Consequently, the study explores how to achieve a good death from the perspective and experience of physicians, nursing staff, and seniors. The aim of this study is to identify comparable notions of a good death among the participants and to determine factors that may promote or prevent a good death, including those that may lead to futile care.

Methods

The study used a qualitative design with a total of 16 focus group discussions, 5 each with physicians and nursing staff, and 6 with seniors at least 75 years old. The group size ranged between 3 and 9 participants. Analysis was carried out using Qualitative Content Analysis.

Results

Three major aspects affect the quality of death: (1) good communication and successful cooperation, (2) avoidance of death, and (3) acceptance of death. While successful communication and acceptance of death reinforce each other, successful communication counters avoidance of death and vice versa. Acceptance and avoidance of death are in constant tension. Additionally, the role of family and loved ones has been shown to be crucial in the organization of dying (e.g. communicating the patient’s wishes to health care professionals).

Conclusions

Communication and cooperation between patients and all involved caretakers determines quality of death. However, communication depends on several individual and organizational factors such as the personal level of acceptance or avoidance of death and the availability of institutionalized communication channels crossing professional and organizational boundaries. Furthermore, treatment cultures and organizational structures in hospitals and nursing homes often default towards life prolongation. This carries significant potential for problems, particularly because physicians emphasized the need to prevent hospital admissions when no further life-sustaining treatment is desired. In contrast, nurses and seniors were less aware that hospitals may not be the most suitable place for end-of-life care. This, along with the ambivalent role of nursing homes as places of death, holds potential for conflict.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00027076, 05/11/2021.
Progress and challenges in the elimination of hepatitis C among people who inject drugs in Germany: results of a pilot study for a national monitoring system, 10 years after the first data collection
Authors: Steffen Gyde , Krings Amrei , Guttmann Sarah , Lübke Nadine , Meyer-Schlinkmann Kristin , Tiemann Carsten , Timm Jörg , Walker Andreas , Zimmermann Ruth ,   The DRUCK 2.0-study group, Backmund Markus , Dorsch Hans-Peter , Bayer Sebastian , Ciomber Jörg , Gerlich Miriam , Leicht Astrid , Kießling Martin , Neumeier Esther , Nielsen Stine , Rensmann Willehad , Schäffer Dirk , Ostermann Olaf , Stöter Christiane , Wiedemann Stefan , Wimmer Katrin
Published: December 2024

Background

People who inject drugs (PWID) are at high risk of blood-borne infections, and injection drug use contributes significantly to hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission. The WHO has therefore set targets of reducing HCV incidence and prevalence among PWID and increasing treatment coverage to eliminate HCV by 2030. The DRUCK study (2011–2014) found high HCV prevalence and low treatment coverage among PWID in Germany. To assess progress in the elimination of HCV among PWID, we conducted a cross-sectional study in two German federal states that piloted a future monitoring.

Methods

PWID aged 16 + who injected drugs (previous 12 months) were recruited in low-threshold drug services and opioid agonist treatment (OAT) practices in Berlin and Bavaria between June 2021 and April 2022. Participants completed a questionnaire on sociodemographics, behaviours and access to care, and were tested for hepatitis B virus (HBV) and HCV, and HIV. Data was analysed regarding HCV prevalence, history of treatment, and risk and prevention behaviours. Results were compared with the DRUCK study.

Results

A total of 588 PWID, with a median age of 39 (range: 17–66) years and 68% (399/587) male, were included in the analysis. Of the participants, 61% (353/574) reported receiving OAT and 14% (66/469) recent use of shared needles/syringes during the last 30 days. History of imprisonment was reported by 77% (444/577) and history of homelessness by 75% (428/569) of participants. Among anti-HCV positive participants, viraemic HCV infections decreased by 44% from 66% (904/1361) in 2011–2014 to 37% (160/432) in 2021–2022, while those with cleared HCV infection and treatment history increased from 20% (266/1361) to 34% (148/432).

Conclusions

Despite a decrease since 2011–2014, viraemic HCV prevalence among PWID in Germany remains high, and treatment coverage is still insufficient. To achieve the WHO targets, universal health coverage and targeted integrated testing and treatment for PWID are needed. PWID receiving OAT and people in prison should be offered testing and treatment at any contact with the medical system. A nationwide monitoring system will help assess successes and remaining gaps, and track progress towards elimination of HCV among PWID in Germany.
Brief Communication: Factors associated with willingness to use long-acting injectable Cabotegravir for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among female undergraduate students at a Ugandan university
Authors: Atuhaire Bridget , Muteebwa Laban , Nabunya Racheal , Muhindo Richard , Ngabirano Tom Denis , Osingada Charles Peter , Muwanguzi Patience A.
Published: December 2024

Background

We assessed the willingness of female students at a Ugandan public university to use long-acting Cabotegravir (CAB-LA) for HIV prevention, given their high prevalence of HIV risk behaviours.

Methods

Using an online questionnaire, this cross-sectional study surveyed 346 female undergraduate students aged 18–25. Factors influencing their willingness were analysed with modified Poisson regression and robust standard errors.

Results

More than half, 56.7% (95% CI: 51.4 to 61.8), were willing to use CAB-LA. Willingness was significantly associated with being sexually active in the past 3 months, using alcohol in the past 6 months, or being in the 4th year of study compared to the 1st year.

Conclusion

Educational initiatives on innovative HIV prevention strategies, such as CAB-LA, should be introduced early in university students’ studies to increase awareness and acceptance.
Acute kidney injury and tacrolimus toxicity in a kidney transplant recipient treated with nirmaltrevir/ritonavir: a case report
Authors: Rycen Jack , Jefferis Julia , Mudge David
Published: December 2024

Background

Kidney transplant recipients with severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 infection have an increased risk of severe disease and mortality. Nirmaltrevir/ritonavir (Paxlovid) is an effective oral disease-modifying therapy that has been shown to reduce risk of progression to severe disease in high-risk, nonhospitalized adults. However, owing to the potential for serious drug–drug interactions owing to ritonavir-induced inhibition of the CYP3A enzyme, this drug is not suitable option for transplant recipients with mild-moderate severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 infection.

Case presentation

A 57-year-old Caucasian man presented to the emergency department with 48 hours of nausea, vomiting, headaches, and lethargy. At 5 days earlier, he was diagnosed with a mild severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 infection by his general practitioner, who commenced treatment with Paxlovid at 300 mg/100 mg twice daily. Past medical history included kidney transplantation in 2018 for end-stage kidney secondary to hypertensive nephrosclerosis, managed with prednisone, tacrolimus, and mycophenolate. Vaccination status was up-to-date and prophylactic tixagevimab/cilgavimab (Evusheld) had been given > 6 months prior owing to lack of seroconversion. Examination showed a blood pressure of 176/94 mmHg and normal respiratory parameters. Investigations demonstrated a serum creatinine of 213 µmol/L (baseline 130 µmol/L) and tacrolimus trough level of 118 µg/L (baseline 6.9–8.7 µg/L). Treatment included intravenous rehydration, Evusheld and tacrolimus were withheld for 7 days, with recommencement guided by regular therapeutic drug monitoring.

Conclusion

This acute kidney injury was attributed to tacrolimus toxicity resulting from a drug–drug interaction with Paxlovid. While transplant recipients have an increased risk of severe disease, current Australian guidelines recommend against Paxlovid use in adults taking medications that are heavily dependent on CYP3A4 for clearance, including calcineurin and mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors.
African swine fever virus enhances viral replication by increasing intracellular reduced glutathione levels, which suppresses stress granule formation
Authors: Gao Han , Gu Taoming , Gao Xiaopeng , Song Zebu , Liu Jing , Song Yi , Zhang Guihong , Sun Yankuo
Published: December 2024

African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a DNA virus that has significantly impacted the global swine industry. Currently, there are no effective therapies or vaccines against ASFV. Stress granules (SGs), known for their antiviral properties, are not induced during ASFV infection, even though reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated. The mechanism by which ASFV regulates SGs formation remains unclear. This study demonstrates that ASFV antagonises SGs formation and increases intracellular levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) levels. The use of the GSH inhibitor BSO and the activator NAC confirmed that the ASFV-induced increase in GSH helps to suppress SGs formation and influences viral replication. Additionally, this study revealed that ASFV enhances GSH by upregulating the antioxidant transcription factor NRF2, as well as factors involved in GSH synthesis and regeneration, such as GCLC, and those related to the ferroptosis pathway, such as SLC7A11. Furthermore, the study uncovered that ASFV manipulates intracellular GSH levels by activating the mitochondrial protein AIFM1. This regulatory mechanism helps the virus inhibit the formation of intracellular SGs, thereby creating an optimal environment for viral replication. These findings provide new insights into the molecular strategies employed by ASFV.
DCNN: a novel binary and multi-class network intrusion detection model via deep convolutional neural network
Authors: Shebl Ahmed , Elsedimy E. I. , Ismail A. , Salama A. A. , Herajy Mostafa
Published: December 2024

Network security become imperative in the context of our interconnected networks and everyday communications. Recently, many deep learning models have been proposed to tackle the problem of predicting intrusions and malicious activities in interconnected systems. However, they solely focus on binary classification and lack reporting on individual class performance in case of multi-class classification. Moreover, many of them are trained and tested using outdated datasets which eventually impact the overall performance. Therefore, there is a need for an efficient and accurate network intrusion detection system. In this paper, we propose a novel intelligent detection system based on convolutional neural network, namely DCNN. The proposed model can be utilized to efficiently analyze and detect attacks and intrusions in intelligent network systems (e.g., suspicious network traffic activities and policy violations). The DCNN model is applied against three benchmark datasets and compared with state-of-the-art models. Experimental results show that the proposed model improved resilience to intrusions and malicious activities for binary as well as multi-class classification, expanding its applicability across different intrusion detection scenarios. Furthermore, our DCNN model outperforms similar intrusion detection systems in terms of positive predicted value, true positive rate, F1 measure, and accuracy. The scores obtained for binary and multi-class classifications on the CICIoT2023 dataset are 99.50% and 99.25%, respectively. Additionally, for the CICIDS-2017 dataset, DCNN attains a score of 99.96% for both binary and multi-class classifications, while the CICIoMT2024 dataset attains a score of 99.98% and 99.86% for binary and multi-class classifications, respectively.
Sarcomatous transformation of IDH-mutant astrocytoma matching to methylation class oligosarcoma following embolization, a case report
Authors: Landvater Ryan , Tripathy Arushi , Nieblas-Bedolla Edwin , Shao Lina , Conway Kyle , Al-Holou Wajd , Ferris Sean P.
Published: December 2024

The mesenchymal transformations of infiltrating gliomas are uncommon events. This is particularly true of IDH-mutant astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas, in which mesenchymal transformation is exceedingly rare. oligosarcoma is a newly recognized methylation class (MC) that represents transformed 1p/19q co-deleted oligodendrogliomas, but recent studies indicate it may be non-specific. Herein we report the diffuse sarcomatous transformation of a multifocal recurrent astrocytoma from a precursor IDH-mutant astrocytoma, CNS WHO grade 3, in a young patient following embolization therapy and matching to MC oligosarcoma. The sarcomatous recurrence and original tumor showed identical 17q breakpoints with loss of heterozygosity of TP53. Both lack the defining 1p/19q co-deletion or copy-neutral heterozygosity of an oligodendroglioma and oligosarcoma. The findings in this case report both contribute to the apparent heterogeneity of the novel MC oligosarcoma and describe a second reported mesenchymal transformation of an IDH-mutant astrocytoma.
A novel risk model consisting of nine platelet-related gene signatures for predicting prognosis, immune features and drug sensitivity in glioma
Authors: Wei Sanlin , Zhou Junke , Dong Bin
Published: December 2024

Background

Glioma is a malignancy with challenging clinical treatment and poor prognosis. Platelets are closely associated with tumor growth, propagation, invasion, and angiogenesis. However, the role of platelet-related genes in glioma treatment and prognosis remains unclear.

Results

A prognostic risk model was established using nine platelet-related prognostic signature genes (CAPG, CLIC1, GLB1, GNG12, KIF20A, PDIA4, SULF2, TAGLN2, and WEE1), and the risk score of samples were calculated. Subsequently, the glioma samples were divided into high- and low-risk groups based on the median values of risk scores. scRNA-seq analysis revealed that the prognostic genes were primarily located in astrocytes and natural killer cells. The immune infiltration proportions of most immune cells differed significantly between high- and low-risk groups. Moreover, we found AZD7762 as a potential candidate for glioma treatment.

Conclusion

Nine platelet-related prognostic genes identified as prognostic signatures for glioma were closely associated with the TME and may aid in directing the clinical treatment and prognosis of gliomas.
Understanding the intersecting social, technical, and ecological systems challenges associated with emerging contaminants in drinking water using cyanotoxins as an example
Authors: Kirchhoff Christine J. , Mullin Cristina , Denny Reginald , Lemos Maria Carmen , Treuer Galen
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates toxic algal blooms (TABs) and their management as an example of a complex emerging contaminant (EC) problem through the lens of interconnected social, technical, ecological systems (SETS). We use mixed methods including analysis of a national survey of public drinking water systems and interviews with drinking water managers and state regulators. For the first time, we extend SETS to the drinking water context to advance a holistic understanding of the complexity of TABs as a problem for drinking water systems and identify specific intervention points to ease TABs management difficulty. We find that management challenges arise at the intersection of SET domains, and often coincide with circumstances where water managers and existing technologies are pushed outside of their traditional operating spheres or when new technologies are introduced creating cascading SET challenges. ECs that do not behave like traditional contaminants and pollutants require adapting social and technical systems to be responsive to these differences. Understanding how management difficulties arise within SET domains and their intersections will help drinking water managers and state regulators mitigate management difficulties in the future. These findings have implications for understanding and mitigating other EC management challenges as well.
What Happens When Undergraduate Biology Students Meet with Professional Scientists to Discuss Research? An Exploratory Investigation into Scientific Discourse, Motivation, and Sense of Belonging
Authors: Machrone Alexandra , Duenas Mainlyng , Acosta Amy , Alvarez Roxana , Bruce-Opris Hannah , Castellano Robin , Chatzikyriakidou Kyriaki , Concepcion Kassandra , Colon Jessica , Hawks Sophia , Knekta Eva , Mardini Valery , Moralejo Laura , Mousavi Shagayeg , Duarte Lai Ng , Perez Arielis , Russoniello Enza , McCartney Melissa
Published: December 2024

We use primary scientific literature (PSL) as a tool to examine scientific discourse between undergraduate students and scientists and find positive shifts in student motivations in reading PSL as well as their sense of belonging to their department. We discuss best-practices for supporting effective scientific discourse in students and scientists.
Awareness, Knowledge, and Treatment Patterns of Nonmetastatic Inflammatory Breast Cancer in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: The BRIDGES Study
Authors: Schlam Ilana , Hirko Kelly A. , Shveid Daniela , Abuali Inas , Sewaralthahab Sarah , Nakhils Faina , Hazra Aditi , Lengyel Csongor , Altuna Sara , Hussain Sadaqat , Seid Fahmi , Jamil Sara , Odhiambo Andrew , Leone Jose Pablo , Metzger Otto , Abraham Jame , Soto-Perez-de-Celis Enrique , Chen Wendy Y. , Block Caroline , Schumer Susan , Bellon Jennifer R. , Valenza Carmine , Curigliano Giuseppe , Tolaney Sara M. , Lynce Filipa , Trapani Dario
Published: December 2024

PURPOSE

Trimodal therapy (TMT) is the standard treatment for patients with nonmetastatic inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). TMT consists of neoadjuvant systemic therapy, modified radical mastectomy (MRM), and postmastectomy radiation therapy. Although broadly considered the best approach for IBC, in the United States, only a third of patients receive TMT. The rate is unknown in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

METHODS

A questionnaire in English and Spanish was constructed to assess the awareness, knowledge, and treatment patterns of IBC among providers in LMICs. It was emailed to the ONCOLLEGE global oncology collaborative group (a network of cancer care providers practicing in LMICs) and through other oncology network providers in LMICs, enhancing the sample size through a snowball sampling approach.

RESULTS

Between June and December of 2023, 145 participants completed the questionnaire, of whom 112 respondents were from 36 LMICs. All the providers reported that standard chemotherapy and MRM were available in their practice; 99.5% responded that radiation therapy was available. A total of 74.1% appropriately reported that IBC is a clinical diagnosis, although 51.8% stated that pathologic evidence of lymphatic emboli was required for IBC diagnosis. A third of the providers responded that >90% of their patients undergo all three parts of TMT.

CONCLUSION

Many patients with IBC in LMICs are not receiving TMT. Barriers to diagnosis and treatment were at least partially related to limited providers' comfort level and knowledge, suggesting that educational approaches can be impact-oriented interventions. On the basis of our findings, we created educational material, which will be translated into various languages and disseminated broadly to improve providers' awareness and knowledge of IBC.
Elevating Cancer Care Standards Worldwide: An Analysis of Global Initiatives and Progress
Authors: Wiernik Andres , Rogado Alvaro , O'Mahony Deirdre , Abdul Razak Albiruni R.
Published: December 2024

Cancer remains a widespread and significant global health issue, with consequential impacts on individuals, families, and societies across the globe. Although there have been noteworthy advancements in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and study of cancer, the impact of this disease continues to be significant on health care systems and people worldwide. Furthermore, there are still differences in obtaining the advantages of modern cancer treatment, which can partly be attributed to the lack of standardized standards for providing top-notch cancer care. To tackle these difficulties, a multitude of projects and organizations have emerged to address the standard of cancer care on a global level. This paper provides a comprehensive review and analysis of the worldwide influence of programs and organizations that seek to improve the quality of cancer care. This document examines the progression of these initiatives, their cooperation with international organizations, possible paths for additional advancement, and suggestions for enhancing the standard of cancer treatment worldwide.
Time Toxicity of Systemic Anticancer Therapy for Metastatic Lung Cancer in Routine Clinical Practice: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Ording Anne Gulbech , Skjøth Flemming , Poulsen Laurids Østergaard , Szejniuk Weronika Maria , Jakobsen Erik , Christensen Thomas Decker , Noble Simon , Overvad Thure Filskov
Published: December 2024

PURPOSE

The concept of time toxicity of cancer treatment, defined as proportion of days from physical contact with the health care system, has been suggested as simple, patient-centered measure useful for shared decision making, particularly in incurable cancer. We investigated the extent of health care contacts in clinical practice in Danish patients with stage IV lung cancer starting first-line systemic anticancer therapies.

METHODS

This is a nationwide cohort study of newly diagnosed patients with stage IV lung cancer in Denmark who initiated treatment during 2019-2021 and followed for up to 1 year. The time toxicity after treatment initiation was calculated as the proportion and mean cumulative number of days with physical health care system contacts recorded in Danish registries. The remaining days without any physical contact were defined as home days. One-year cumulative mortality was also assessed.

RESULTS

We included 4,384 patients with stage IV lung cancer. One year survival was 45% after treatment initiation. Of days alive, the mean cumulative number of days with physical health care contacts was 56 days within 1 year. The corresponding number of home days was 198. Overall, 22% of days alive involved physical contact with the health care system, broadly similar for patients with non–small cell lung cancer (22%) and small cell lung cancer (24%). For specific regimens, the corresponding proportions were chemotherapy (24%), immunotherapy (21%), immunochemotherapy (21%), and targeted therapy (16%).

CONCLUSION

More than 1 in 5 days after initiation of systemic treatment for metastatic lung cancer was spent in physical contact with the health care system. This information may aid shared decision making by informing about expected burdens in relation to cancer therapy.
The absolute swampland
Authors: Eichhorn Astrid , Hebecker Arthur , Pawlowski Jan M. , Walcher Johannes
Published: December 2024

The “Swampland Program” aims to discriminate consistent-looking effective field theories that do not admit a UV completion in quantum gravity from those that do. While most often developed under the umbrella of string theory, several swampland criteria have been explored also in other contexts, especially asymptotically safe gravity. A comparison between different approaches can help to clarify the dependence of low-energy constraints on UV physics and thereby shed light on the universality of quantum gravity itself. In this perspective we summarise what is known about three important swampland conjectures in string theory and in asymptotic safety. We point out future lines of research that can help to understand to what extent swampland conjectures are absolute, i.e., hold in quantum gravity in general, or relative, i.e., belong only to a specific UV framework.
THE PRACTICE OF USING NEURAL NETWORK TECHNOLOGIES IN THE TEACHING OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES
Authors: Dontsov M. A.
Published: December 2024

The article is devoted to the use of neural networks for teaching students a foreign language. An overview of existing neural networks that can be used in the learning process is provided. The possibilities and practical applications of neural networks in foreign language classes for the development of foreign-language communicative competence in various types of speech and language skills are presented. The results of the study will be useful for teachers working in general education institutions, secondary vocational schools, and universities.
CULTURAL RELATIVISM AND WAYS OF ITS MANIFESTATION IN CREATIVITY OF MARINETTE MORTEM
Authors: Kaleeva Zh. G.
Published: December 2024

The article considers cultural relativism as a recognition of the equality of all cultures, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting various cultural traditions. This approach contributes to the harmonization of international relations and conflict prevention. Cultural relativism also enriches contemporary creativity by helping artists use cultural differences to create deep and multi-layered works that promote intercultural dialogue.
Social and philosophical theories in German Idealism
Authors: Gorohov Pavel
Published: December 2024

The textbook not only introduces the reader to the socio-philosophical theories in German idealism, but also gives an overall picture of the ideological, spiritual and ideological connections of the classics of German philosophy with the German culture of that great epoch and its representatives. It is shown how the ideas and concepts of the great Germans were transformed in our complex and contradictory era not only in the philosophical and political-legal concepts of modernity, but also found expression in everyday political practice. The main task of the manual is to show the inextricable genetic connection between the ideas of German idealism and the spiritual life of modern humanity.
The problems covered include topical issues of the socio-philosophical heritage of not only I. Kant, I.G. Fichte, F.W.J. Schelling, G.V.F. Hegel, but also other, less well-known, but by no means minor philosophers who worked in the same time period as the classics of German philosophical thought.
The textbook is provided with educational and methodological materials.
Meets the requirements of the latest generation of federal state standards of higher education.
For students studying in the field of Philosophy.
Innovation Marketing
Authors: Markova Vera
Published: December 2024

An idea of the subject area and specifics of innovation marketing is given, the main tasks and tools used are described. In addition, the difference between innovation marketing and innovation marketing is shown. The materials can be used in the study of the disciplines "Innovation Management", "Entrepreneurship", "Marketing".
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For students of higher educational institutions, undergraduates studying in the field of management, innovative management, marketing and entrepreneurship programs, as well as for graduate students, students of additional professional education programs, specialists who work in the field of innovation, create new products and startups.
Payment systems and organization of non-cash payments
Authors: Kunicyna Natal'ya , Dyudikova Ekaterina
Published: December 2024

The textbook is compiled in accordance with the program of the discipline "Payment systems and organization of non-cash payments" for undergraduate students of the direction 38.03.01 "Economics". It contains the theoretical part, practical tasks and recommendations for their implementation. It is intended to consolidate the theoretical foundations set out in the lecture course and to assist students in studying basic theoretical positions on the main topics of the discipline.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For teachers and students of economics faculties of universities, practitioners of the financial sector of the economy, as well as trainees of the professional development system.
Comprehensive analysis of economic activity
Authors: Nikiforova Elena , Shnayder Ol'ga , Ushanov Igor'
Published: December 2024

The textbook reveals the theoretical and conceptual foundations of a comprehensive analysis of economic activity. The textbook material forms and consolidates the knowledge of the conceptual apparatus of the fundamentals of the analysis of economic activity. Approaches to information support are presented; theoretical and reinforcing material forming the basis of a comprehensive analysis of economic activity is presented.
The textbook material is systematized by topic and covers a complete list of issues of a comprehensive analysis of the economic activities of economic entities.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For students of economic universities enrolled in bachelor's degree programs in the field of training 03/38/01 "Economics", profile "Accounting, analysis, audit". The textbook may be of interest to teachers, practitioners and specialists in the field of management, accounting, analysis and audit, as well as students of the system of training, certification and development of professional competencies of accountants, analysts and managers.
Criminal law: The general part
Authors: Abdulvaliev Almaz , Ivanova Liliya , Losev Sergey , Minin Roman , Morozov Viktor , Perezhogina Galina , Petrov Vladimir , Popova-Logacheva Yuliya , Sumachev Aleksey
Published: December 2024

The textbook was prepared by a team of scientists from the Department of Criminal Law Disciplines of Tyumen State University and contains all the topics studied within the framework of the discipline "Criminal Law (General part)".
A special feature of this textbook is modern navigation through the materials of the paragraphs. Sections such as judicial practice, historical background, interesting facts, and opinions of scientists are presented. Each chapter includes test tasks, a glossary, and a list of sources. QR codes have been added to the text for a quick transition to the so-called regulatory legal acts, scientific sources, and test tasks.
Regulatory legal acts are listed as of March 1, 2024.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For teachers and students of higher educational institutions studying in the field of Law, as well as in the specialties "Legal support of national security", "Judicial and prosecutorial activities".
Technologies for resource-saving restoration and repair of industrial equipment parts
Authors: Karcev Sergey , Kravchenko Igor'
Published: December 2024

The monograph outlines the theoretical foundations and practice of using the plasma method of applying high-life coatings as one of the most effective, strengthening and repair technologies that increase the durability of restored parts of industrial equipment. The means of technological equipment, equipment and materials for plasma application of wear-resistant coatings are described. The experimental data and the results of theoretical research are summarized. Various methods of testing and properties of coatings applied by the plasma method are considered.
For researchers, postgraduates and students studying various branches of technology, as well as engineering and technical workers in mechanical engineering, metallurgy, energy and other industries.
Accounting business
Authors: Horuzhiy Lyudmila , Kokorev Nikolay , Mishin Petr
Published: December 2024

The purpose of the textbook is to help students in mastering and consolidating theoretical knowledge, developing practical skills and abilities in mastering relevant competencies for the specified course.
It includes theoretical material, control questions for self-examination of knowledge acquisition, a glossary, a workshop on the discipline, tests and tasks for independent work and self-examination.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For students of higher educational institutions studying in the areas 38.03.01 "Economics", 38.03.02 "Management", 38.05.01 "Economic security", students of the agroeconomical, agrotechnological profile of the system of additional, postgraduate education, heads of organizations, specialists of accounting and control, economic, financial and analytical and other services of enterprises.
Strategic planning for the sustainable development of the agri-food sector
Authors: Samygin Denis , Baryshnikov Nikolay
Published: December 2024

The theoretical provisions, methodological foundations and practical aspects of strategic planning for sustainable development of the agri-food sector are considered. The assessment of the state of planning results in the agri-food sector is carried out, trends are identified and directions for its development are justified. Scientific developments consist in the development of theoretical, methodological and methodological provisions for improving strategic planning of the agri-food sector, aimed at ensuring convergence of physical and economic accessibility and product quality, taking into account modern challenges in the field of food security.
It is intended for specialists in the field of strategic planning of the agro-industrial complex at the sectoral and territorial levels, researchers of research institutes and university students.
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE EU CENTER OF EXCELLENCE IN PLANT SYSTEMS BIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY IN PLOVDIV, BULGARIA
Authors: Kazashka Vesela , Ivanova Asya , Mircheva-Topalova Marina , Ruseva Margarita , Gechev Tsanko
Published: December 2024

The Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB) is the first Bulgarian Center of Excellence (CoE), funded under the Horizon 2020 program, operating in Plovdiv. This article presents a case study that analyses the development of CPSBB over six years. Content analysis was used as the primary research method, focusing on financial indicators, publication and project activity, and human resources development of CPSBB for the 2017-2023 period. The study examines three critical dimensions of sustainability: management, internal and external factors affecting the Center's operation. The analysis supports the hypothesis that organisations such as CPSBB hold a prominent position in Bulgaria's and Europe's scientific ecosystem because of their operational agility and high productivity. The article outlines the execution of CPSBB's development strategy and highlights plans for enhancing the Center's administrative efficiency and long-term sustainability.
ROLE OF POWER DISTANCE AND INDIVIDUALISM VS COLLECTIVISM IN SHAPING ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENT
Authors: Rashad Nehal
Published: December 2024

This study examines how two of Hofstede's cultural dimensions—Power Distance and Individualism versus Collectivism—affect entrepreneurial intent in Saudi Arabia. Using Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions as a framework, the research explores how cultural differences shape entrepreneurial activities, focusing on Saudi culture compared to other global cultures. The study aims to empirically analyse the influence of these cultural dimensions on entrepreneurial intent, assess their role in the success of entrepreneurial ventures in Saudi Arabia, and provide insights for entrepreneurs and policymakers to enhance decision-making and strategic planning. The research methodology includes a literature review and a self-administered online survey completed by 200 respondents. The findings reveal that High Power Distance and Collectivism significantly impact entrepreneurial intent in Saudi Arabia, offering valuable implications for promoting entrepreneurship in alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. The study also contributes to academic understanding by providing a framework to analyse the relationship between cultural dimensions and entrepreneurial activities in the Saudi context.
APPLICATION OF SECTOR ROTATION IN ACTIVE PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT FOR US AND EU STOCK MARKETS
Authors: Valach Vladimír , Paciga Filip , Bohdalová Mária
Published: December 2024

The paper deals with active portfolio management through sector rotation. Focusing on European and American markets, it introduces the reader to the intricacies of sector rotation in active investing using a carefully selected investment strategy. We aim to propose and validate an investment approach that combines monetary policy changes with momentum. We construct our investment portfolios by constructing sector-specific exchange-traded funds (ETFs) for the European and U.S. markets. We analyze monthly data from March 2003 to March 2023 to evaluate performance. Our investigation covers several critical aspects, such as market efficiency, active vs. passive investing, a comparison between active and passive investment approaches and Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down approaches. We explore the merits of these contrasting strategies in active investing. To guide our investment decisions, we closely monitor interest rate changes. Specifically, we track adjustments made by the European Central Bank (ECB) for European markets and the Federal Reserve (FED) for U.S. markets. These serve as monetary easing and tightening indicators, respectively, reflecting expansionary and restrictive policies. Our sector ETFs are strategically selected based on these interest rate changes, either cyclically or defensively. Subsequently, we evaluate the performance of our portfolios using momentum strategies. Notably, our proposed strategy effectively reduces market risk in the E.U. and U.S. markets. Our portfolios surpass the benchmark STOXX600 across all metrics in the European markets. However, in the U.S. markets, the benchmark S&P500 exceeds the performance of all our portfolios.
Activity of Analytical Centers in the Field of Educational Policy
Authors: Zhelanova Victoriia , Kryzhanovska Veronika
Published: December 2024

The article substantiates the relevance and expediency of the activities of analytical centers in the field of educational policy in modern society. The research methodology, based on the principles of systemic, axiological, and environmental approaches, is presented, along with the research methods employed. A contemporary interpretation of the phenomenon of analytical centers is provided. Various classifications of analytical centers in the field of educational policy (independent and autonomous, semi-autonomous, governmental, quasi-governmental, university-based, party-affiliated, and corporate) are outlined, and their functions are revealed. The dimensions of analytical centers' activities in educational policy are analyzed, including advocating for market-oriented educational policies, influencing the formulation of educational policy, fostering collaboration, and generating solutions. The activities of specific analytical centers are highlighted: the Inter-American Dialogue, focused on educational reform in Latin America; the Centre for Independent Studies in Australia, promoting conservative educational policies with an emphasis on market solutions and reduced public spending on education; the Japanese National Institute for Educational Policy Research (NIER), supporting educational reforms; and the Ukrainian analytical center of Borys Grinchenko Kyiv Metropolitan University, «Education Analytics», focusing on the adaptation of schools under martial law conditions. The article also presents a ranking of the Top 10 analytical centers in the field of educational policy.
The influence of lingual and extralingual features of the Polish language on the formation of foreign language communicative competence
Authors: Khalashy Mykhailo
Published: December 2024

The article deals with the process of forming students’ foreign language communicative competence in Polish language classes in the context of modern requirements of multilingualism and multiculturalism. The article focuses on the importance of not only language knowledge, but also understanding of socio-cultural aspects, culture and extra-linguistic factors that influence the effectiveness of intercultural communication. The article analyzes lingual and extralingual factors that complicate the process of learning Polish as a foreign language, examples of the most common mistakes and ways to correct them are also given. The main stages of foreign language communicative competence formation, their tasks, methods and components at each level are reviewed. The article expresses the opinion that the perception of a foreign language inevitably passes through the prism of the native language, and therefore in the context of the development of Polish foreign language communicative competence it is important not only to compare it with Ukrainian, but also to consciously focus on lingual and extralingual differences in the learning process, as well as to develop communicative exercises and trainings that would take them into account. Therefore, linguistic factors include phonetic and phonological, grammatical and lexical features of the Polish language. Extralingual factors include socio-cultural features, the level of spontaneity and the format of communication. Extra-linguistic factors appear only in specific situations of communication, and therefore they can be said to have a situational influence. We believe that taking into account linguistic and extra-linguistic factors during practical language use in real or realistic conditions will improve students’ FLC and the quality of intercultural communication. Further research on this topic will be focused on the development of methodological materials, exercises, seminars and trainings, which will be implemented in the course of teaching the Polish language.
The usage of digital music computer technologies as a pedagogical condition for the formation of future music teachers' self-educational competence
Authors: Xiang Wang
Published: December 2024

The article deals with the usage of digital music and computer technologies as a pedagogical condition for the formation of self-educational competence of future music teachers. The main key aspects of the formation of self-educational competence of future music teachers are considered, it is theoretically substantiated that digital music and computer technologies are a pedagogical condition for the formation of self-educational competence. The expediency of using digital music and computer technologies as a pedagogical condition for the formation of self-educational competence of future music teachers in the process of professional training is substantiated. It was emphasised that the content of the training materials included both practical and theoretical tasks. The means used to form this educational component were the word processor Microsoft Office Word, Microsoft Office Excel, and the capabilities of a Google account and Youtube. A comparative analysis of several digital resources on the Internet is carried out to study the process of forming the skills of independent search by future music teachers on the Internet and databases and analysis of the necessary information. Tasks aimed at forming the self-educational competence of future music teachers in the use of various digital services filled with information for the implementation of music and pedagogical activities of future music teachers have been developed, with the help of which future music teachers will be ready to quickly select and analyze information in the relevant subject area. In conclusion, the importance of using digital music and computer technologies as a pedagogical condition for the formation of selfeducational competence of future music teachers is indicated, highlighting their role in this formation.
The psychological impact of birth trauma on fathers: a narrative review
Authors: Ellis Josh , Wier Jacqueline
Published: December 2024

Background/Aims

There is a paucity of evidence on how birth trauma can affect the mental health of fathers. This review aimed to determine the common psychological effects of witnessing traumatic events during birth for fathers.

Methods

A narrative literature review of primary research and literature reviews was conducted using the British Nursing Index, CINAHL, Maternity and Infant Care, PubMed and EBSCO. A total of 6 research articles were included.

Results

Data analysis generated three themes: toxic masculinity: the role of fathers in the birthing environment; unpreparedness: expectation vs reality; and relationships with partner and others.

Conclusions

Traumatic events during labour and birth can have a profound impact on both mother and father. Fathers may experience poor mental health in the perinatal period, which can impact their relationship with their partner and the baby. It was noted that some healthcare professionals were more supportive than others. Effective communication is essential to quality care provision, which should help to manage poor paternal mental health in the perinatal period.

Implications for practice

Services are needed to identify and address poor mental health in the perinatal period for both mothers and fathers. Antenatal education should include information about all potential outcomes during labour and birth. More healthcare professionals are needed with expertise in mental health, including the ability to assess and refer to specialist services where necessary.
A reflection on masculinities and maternity
Authors: Nicholson Martha
Published: December 2024

Midwives should provide family-centred care that extends to the partner, but evidence shows that feelings of exclusion, disempowerment and a perpetuation of unhelpful gender stereotypes are often experienced by partners. Despite this, there is limited research surrounding masculinities and maternity services. This reflection explores how engaging with a men's health charity challenged my perceptions on the role between masculinities and maternity services. Two analyses will be outlined, first exploring the reductive views of masculinities common in societal discourse, and second how maternity service provision interacts with these. This reflection interrogates approaches to practice through a lens that views toxic tropes of masculinities as products of societal conditions in order to explore the possibility of engaging with these in midwifery practice.
Is the midwifery profession academic enough?
Authors: Chenery-Morris Sam , Divers Jo
Published: December 2024

This is the final article in a series of six inspired by themes arising from the Royal College of Midwives' state of midwifery education report. The series has explored the current landscape and challenges in educating the future midwifery workforce, particularly those that relate to the higher education workforce itself. This article considers the academic level of the midwifery profession. The decreasing number of midwifery professors in higher education was noted in the Royal College of Midwives' report. This article explores how relatively recent regulatory changes may have decreased opportunities for registered midwives to advance their academic qualifications and contribute to the professional knowledge base. It also examines how midwives can be better supported to undertake additional academic qualifications and research, whether they work in practice or higher education.