bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Endocrinological approach to Cornelia de Lange Syndrome
Authors:   Research Department, ARTHOPE SRL, Bucharest, Romania, Iancu Mirela Elena ,   Endocrinology Department, Elias Emergency Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, Albu Alice Ioana ,   Endocrinology Department, Elias Emergency Hospital, Bucharest, Romania,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Vlad Raluca Maria ,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania,   “Grigore Alexandrescu” Emergency Children’s Hospital Bucharest, Romania, Albu Dragos Nicolae ,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
Published: May 2022

Cornelia de Lange syndrome is a developmental disorder with a great degree of clinical and genetical variability characterized by typical facial features, growth impairment and multi-organ anomalies. It is caused by mutations in the cohesin complex that is involved in regulation of gene expression. Growth disturbances are a major feature of the syndrome and have various underlying mechanisms. Other associations regarding endocrine function are represented by disturbances in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, decreased bone density associated with fractures and genital malformations associated with menstrual irregularities and altered fertility.
Ethical dilemmas and conflicts in minor patients’ care – general review
Authors:   “George Emil Palade“ University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Targu Mures, Romania, Salcudean Andreea , Cosma Marius-Catalin ,   Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases and Cardiac Transplantation of Targu Mures- Pediatric Cardiology Department, Targu Mures, Romania, Nan Andreea-Georgiana ,   Psychiatry Clinic 1, County Clinical Hospital Mures, Targu Mures, Romania, Kiss Monica ,   Psychiatry Department, City Hospital, Odorheiu Secuiesc, Romania, Lica (Cozma) Maria-Melania ,   “George Emil Palade“ University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Targu Mures, Romania, Bodo Cristina-Raluca ,   Psychiatry Clinic 2, County Clinical Hospital Mures, Targu Mures, Romania, Strete Gabriela-Elena ,   “George Emil Palade“ University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Targu Mures, Romania
Published: May 2022

The aim of this review study is to analyze and describe the main moral and ethical aspects regarding the minor patients' healthcare related procedures. The Pediatric Ethics differentiate from that of the competent adults, such particularities including surrogate decisions, confidentiality issues, genetic testing and research related matters, end-of-life situations and legal framework. An important aspect is that the child is not entirely lacking capacity, in fact, the literature underlines the importance of listening, analyzing and taking into consideration the minor patient’s opinions, statements or judgements according to their age and cognitive development. The approach of the minor patient should always take into account the triad “doctor-parent-child” without neglecting any of the participants and their role. The main responsibility of the healthcare professionals is to act guided by the best interests of the minor patient.
Atypical Form of Ocular Toxoplasmosis
Authors:   University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 2nd Pediatric Clinic, Emergency County Hospital in Craiova, Romania, Singer Cristina Elena , Cosoveanu Simona ,   University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 2nd Pediatric Clinic, Emergency County Hospital in Craiova, Romania, Petrescu Ileana Octavia ,   University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 2nd Pediatric Clinic, Emergency County Hospital in Craiova, Romania, Godeanu Simona ,   Infantile Neuropsychiatric Clinic, Hospital no 3, Craiova, Romania, Dan Alexandra ,   Municipal Hospital, Craiova, Romania, Popescu Mihaela ,   University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Endocrinology Clinic, Romania, Singer Maria ,   University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Romania
Published: May 2022

We present the case of a girl, aged 7 years, from rural area, admitted to our clinic with frontal and occipital headache and intermittent ocular pain, which started three weeks before admission; no pathologic antecedents. When admitted, weight=51 kg, height=124 cm (BMI=36.16), no fever but with modified general state, excessive subcutaneous cellular tissue, normal cardio-pulmonary and digestive state, without meningeal symptoms. BP= 90/62 mmHg, HR= 80 b/min.; eye fundus examination at admission: both eyes - papillae with a faded, prominent contour/lineament, multiple hemorrhages with a peripapillary location and several soft exudates (RE > LE), maculae with preserved reflex; diagnosis: papillary edema. Head computed tomography, normal cerebral and cervical spine NMR, and normal aspect in hypophysis NMR; hemogram, renal and hepatic investigations, ionogram, glycaemia – normal values; the TORCH test pointed out increased values for IgM Toxoplasma 1.24 UI/ml (N= 0-0.8) and for IgG Toxoplasma 36.31 UI/ml (n=0-10). We excluded: cerebral edema, malformations, hypophysis or optical chiasma tumors, Arnold-Chiari malformation. We decided for the ocular toxoplasmosis diagnosis and the patient was sent to the infectious disease physician for an antiparasitic treatment. Before starting it, the patient no longer complained of headaches and the eye fundus exam was normal, most likely because of seroconversion, with a decrease of IgM and an increase of IgG Toxoplasmosis, as shown by the TORCH test. The patient remained in our clinic’s evidence, returning for regular ophthalmologic examination, and with a good evolution.
Hydroxychloroquine - safety in pregnancy
Authors:   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Varse Ramona Georgiana , Gica Nicolae ,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania,   Filantropia Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, Botezatu Radu ,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania,   Filantropia Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, Peltecu Gheorghe ,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania,   Filantropia Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, Panaitescu Anca Maria ,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania,   Filantropia Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
Published: May 2022

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is an antimalarial drug containing a 4-aminoquinoline radical, with immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and vascular protective effects, which is widely used in the treatment of various rheumatological conditions and is also compatible with pregnancy. It is well known that hydroxychloroquine crosses the placental barrier and hence it can protect against adverse perinatal outcomes, such as congenital heart block in fetuses of anti-SSA/Ro positive mothers. When it is administered at daily doses inferior or equal to 400 mg, HCQ is not associated with augmented risk of perinatal morbidity and it has also been found to prevent disease flares among pregnant women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA), improving maternal outcomes and being protective toward fetal health as well. However, the concerns about its safety in pregnancy are still present because studies on the risks of perinatal defects associated with HCQ administration arise sparse and have controversial results. The purpose of the current article is to make a review of the medical literature concerning the safety of HCQ in pregnancy. For this purpose, scientific research in online medical publications such as Elsevier, PubMed, and The Lancet, was conducted.
Heritability of crystal related arthropathies
Authors:   “Victor Babes“ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania, Avram Claudiu , Dragoi Razvan Gabriel ,   “Victor Babes“ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania, Bojinca Mihai ,   “Carol Davila“ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Popoviciu Horatiu ,   “George Emil Palade“ University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology, Targu Mures, Romania, Avram Cristiana Adina ,   “Victor Babes“ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
Published: May 2022

The most common types of crystal arthropathies are gout and calcium pyrophosphate deposition (CPPD) disease. Serum urate levels are influenced by a combination of genetic factors and the environment. There are studies estimating the heritability of urate ranging from 45% to 73%. Approximately 3% of the variance in serum urate level is explained by the locus SLC2A9. Among the Caucasian population, 10% of all gout cases may be largely attributable to locus ABCG2. Loss or reduction function of ABCG2 halves the kidney’s ability to secrete uric acid. Gain-of-function mutations in ENPP1 gene may be involved in the development of CPPD disease. Loss-of-function mutations in ANKH leads to excess calcium hydroxyapatite formation. Conclusions: There is reason to believe that studying susceptibility genes for the crystal arthropathies will contribute to our understanding of the complexity of inheritance of these disorders. At present many other genes involved in crystal arthropathies are being investigated, and we hope that soon, novel therapeutic targets will be found.
Welcoming clinical nutrition in Rheumatology – summary of first dietary recommendations for patients with chronic inflammatory rheumatic conditions
Authors:   Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, “Sfanta Maria“ Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, Cobilinschi Claudia ,   “Carol Davila“ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Dumitru Flavia ,   Department of Radiotherapy, Coltea Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, Ionescu Ruxandra ,   Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, “Sfanta Maria“ Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania,   “Carol Davila“ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Opris-Belinski Daniela ,   Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, “Sfanta Maria“ Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania,   “Carol Davila“ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
Published: May 2022

Nutrition has been identified as playing a significant role in inflammatory rheumatic conditions. Available recommendations for managing these diseases have recently included lifestyle changes as well as dietary advice as complementary to pharmacological treatments. This is a summary of the first dietary recommendations for patients suffering from rheumatic diseases, postulated by the French Society for Rheumatology. The work was performed by a group of multidisciplinary experts and it was based on a systematic literature review of available published data, also considering the quality of studies. The eight principles and nine recommendations issued target both joint and extra-articular effects of nutritional intervention. The recommendations state following a Mediterranean diet, supplementation of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Restrictive-type diets like gluten-free, dairy-free, fasting or vitamins and trace elements supplementation are not recommended because of lack of scientifically-proven benefit. The use of probiotics or spices have insufficient rationale to be recommended.
Perception of resident doctors on postgraduate education during the COVID-19 pandemic: a preliminary assessment
Authors:   Discipline of Periodontology, ", Costea Cristina Andrada ,   Iuliu Hatieganu",   University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, Roman Alexandra ,   Discipline of Periodontology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, Lucaciu Ondine ,   Discipline of Oral Rehabilitation, "Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, Ciurea Andreea ,   Discipline of Periodontology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, Micu Iulia Cristina ,   Discipline of Periodontology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, Onet Diana ,   Discipline of Periodontology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, Soanca Andra ,   Discipline of Periodontology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Published: May 2022

Introduction. The aim of this study was to assess the results of the impact of the first year of the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 19) pandemic on the postgraduate hybrid educational process (virtual/e-learning and traditional) from a resident-centred perspective, in a group of general dentistry resident doctors. Materials and methods. A questionnaire with 32 items (Q1-Q32) was configured using Google Forms and filled online, anonymously. In the first section, demographic information was collected. The other sections collected data about: 1) technical support), 2) the impact of traffic restriction and self-isolation, 3) the impact of preclinical/clinical online training compared to the on-site one, 4) attendance of online theoretical courses, 5) the effect of preclinical training in laboratories, 6) the degree of online interactivity and 7) general satisfaction. Excepting demographics and Q1-Q3 items, all other parts used multi-choice responses based on a five-degree Likert scale. Results. Most resident doctors did not report any problem in connection to online courses, increased anxiety, troubled concentration, or decreased learning efficiency. Conclusions. Resident doctors considered part-time e-learning process as a viable approach capable of providing a qualitative education and that the reorganization of the preclinical activity allowed them to carry out more precise and efficient procedures in the clinic.
ISOLATION AND CHARACTERISATION OF THE DEGRADATION POTENTIAL OF 2,2-DICHLOROPROPIONATE (2,2-DCP) BY BACILLUS AMYLOLIQUEFACIENS FROM GEBENG
Authors: ALİYU Firdausi , ADAMU Aliyu , AB. WAHAB Roswanira , ZAMAN HUYOP Fahrul
Published: May 2022

Most halogenated compounds such as α-halocarboxylic acid (αHCA) are potential carcinogens that are toxic and widely liberated in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. 2,2-dichloropropionate (2,2-DCP) is a synthetic halogenated compound commonly used in agricultural activities as an herbicide. This study is focused on the isolation and characterization of dehalogenase-producing bacteria capable of utilizing 2,2-dichloropropionate as the sole carbon and energy source from soil samples obtained from the industrial hub of Gebeng (Pahang), Malaysia. An enrichment culture technique supplemented with 2,2-DCP was used to isolate the bacteria. A pure culture strain designated as strain FDS grew well in media containing 20 mM 2,2-DCP at a temperature of 30˚C exhibiting a cell doubling time of 22.21hours and a maximum rate of chloride ion release of 0.345mmol/L suggesting this is the optimum concentration for growth. Based on microscopic observations, biochemical characteristics, and phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence, FDS was identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens with 98% homology. A literature survey revealed no report regarding the role of B. amyloliquefaciens on pesticide biodegradation as well as on 2,2-DCP, therefore the current isolate was designated Bacillus amyloliquefaciens FDS.
Intraspecific variations and phylogenetic relationships of threatened endemic Cameroonian freshwater crab species assigned to Louisea Cumberlidge, 1994 (Crustacea, Brachyura, Potamonautidae), with recommendations for conservation status
Authors: Mvogo Ndongo Pierre A. , von Rintelen Thomas , Clark Paul , Shahdadi Adnan , Tchietchui Carine Rosine , Albrecht Christian , Cumberlidge Neil
Published: May 2022

The Cameroonian freshwater crab genus Louisea Cumberlidge, 1994 currently includes four threatened species: L. edeaensis (Bott, 1969) from Lake Ossa Island, L. balssi (Bott, 1959) from Mt. Manengouba, L. yabassi Mvogo Ndongo, von Rintelen & Cumberlidge, 2019 from the Ebo Forest zone, and L. nkongsamba Mvogo Ndongo, von Rintelen & Cumberlidge, 2019 from the Nlonako Ecological Reserve. We report here on collections of specimens of L. yabassi (from two new localities) and L. nkongsamba (from six new localities). The phylogenetic relationships of the four species of Louisea are currently unresolved. Here, we describe morphological variation within populations of both L. nkongsamba and L. yabassi that are supported by differences in characters of the carapace, mandible, thoracic sternum, and male second gonopods. In addition, three genetic lineages were found within L. nkongsamba that are supported by uncorrected p-distance and the haplotype network. No correlation, however, was found between the morphotypes within the species and the genetic lineages grouping populations of both of these species. Phylogenetic analyses based on three mtDNA loci (COI, 12S rRNA, and 16S rRNA) revealed divergence times of 5.6 million years ago (Ma) for when L. edeaensis diverged from L. balssi, 4.1 MA for when L. yabassi diverged from L. nkongsamba and L. edeaensis, and 2.48 MA for when L. yabassi diverged from L. nkongsamba. Immediate threats to these rare and threatened species of freshwater crabs and to the rainforest ecosystem upon which they depend include deforestation, habitat fragmentation, agricultural encroachment, pollution and firewood gathering. Our results indicate that IUCN Red List reassessments of extinction risk for these four species would likely result in changes of category for L. balssi and L. edeaensis (both might be upgraded from EN to critically endangered (CR)), and first-time assessments for L. yabassi and L. nkongsamba would likely place them both in the endangered (EN) category. Recognition of species boundaries and of subpopulations of species will prove useful when making informed conservation decisions as part of the development of species action plans.
New records of fifteen species of Fulgoromorpha (Insecta: Hemiptera) in Bulgaria
Authors: Gjonov Ilia
Published: May 2022

Bulgarian planthopper fauna (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha) are relatively well studied, with 164 known species from 77 genera and 11 families. Data for some species from previous studies were reported without any localities or were incomplete and need to be updated.

In the present study, 13 species of planthoppers are recorded for the first time in Bulgaria -Hyalesthes mlokosiewicziSignoret, 1879 (Cixiidae),Delphax armeniacusAnufriev, 1970,Euides speciosa(Boheman, 1845),Eurysula lurida(Fieber, 1866),Florodelphax paryphasma(Flor, 1861),Jassidaeus lugubris(Signoret, 1865),Metropis arisAsche, Drosopoulos & Hoch, 1983,Oncodelphax pullula(Boheman, 1852),Ribautodelphax imitans(Ribaut, 1953),R. pungens(Ribaut, 1953),Stenocranus major(Kirschbaum, 1868) (Delphacidae),Latilica maculipes(Melichar, 1906) andTshurtshurnella extremaDlabola, 1980 (Issidae). Species from the following five genera are recorded in Bulgaria for the first time:EuidesFieber, 1866,EurysulaVilbaste, 1968,JassidaeusFieber, 1866,OncodelphaxWagner, 1963 (Delphacidae) andLatilicaEmeljanov, 1971 (Issidae). As a result, the total numbers of known planthopper species and genera in Bulgaria become 177 species and 82 genera. The dataset of all collected specimens presented in this work was provided separately through Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). Detailed distribution of the species and comments on those from the European Red Lists are also provided.
Strain effect on the adult performance of the yellow mealworm,Tenebrio molitor L.
Authors: Adamaki-Sotiraki C. , Rumbos C.I. , Athanassiou C.G.
Published: May 2022

Mass rearing ofTenebrio molitor L. (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) is currently at its infancy, looking for new strategies in order to ameliorate its capabilities. That being the case, several efforts have been made towards optimisation of rearing methods of the larval stages, while more recent research is also directed towards optimisation of the reproductive output ofT.molitor adults. Yet, there are very few published data concerning the strain effect on the adults’ performance. Thus, the aim of the present study was to comparatively evaluate fitness-related traits, i.e. adult survival, egg production and hatching rate, of sixT.molitor strains from five countries (Greece, Italy, Germany, Turkey and Spain). Based on the results, considerable differences were detected in the fitness-related traits of the strains tested. The highest cumulative egg numbers were recorded for the Spanish, the Italian I and the Greek strain, in contrast to the German one which had the lowest cumulative number of eggs. Hatching rate and survival was high for all strains tested, with the exception of the German strain. In general, the reproductive output for the Greek strain was the highest, both in terms of egg production and hatching rate. The results of our study aim to emphasise on the need for proper strain selection taking into consideration, apart from larval growth and performance, the progeny production capacity of adults, in order to increase the efficiency ofT. molitor production.
Best Practices for Diversifying Nursing Education: Observations from a Consultant's Experience
Authors: Byrd David A.
Published: May 2022

Background:

Nursing schools across the country have dedicated themselves to diversifying their enrollment to influence the diversification of the nursing workforce. They often seek examples of best practices to pursue inclusive excellence within their organization. This article provides the best strategies for engaging in this work.

Method:

The author provides reflections from 7 years of experience diversifying and retaining underrepresented populations at an academic health science center and consulting site visits to several schools of nursing across the country.

Results:

Seven best practice strategies are identified to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in nursing education.

Conclusion:

Institutions that are committed to diversifying their enrollment engage in intentional strategies to focus on inclusive excellence and success for all members of their learning community.

[
J Nurs Educ
. 2022;61(9):542–544.]
Existence and uniqueness of radial solutions for Hardy-Hénon equations involving k-Hessian operators
Authors: Hassine Kods
Published: May 2022

We establish a Liouville type result and also a characterization theorem for positive radial solutions of the Hardy-Hénon equation with the k-Hessian operators.
Non-convex sweeping processes in the space of regulated functions
Authors: Krejčí Pavel , Monteiro Giselle Antunes , Recupero Vincenzo
Published: May 2022

The aim of this paper is to study a wide class of non-convex sweeping processes with moving constraint whose translation and deformation are represented by regulated functions, i. e., functions of not necessarily bounded variation admitting one-sided limits at every point. Assuming that the time-dependent constraint is uniformly prox-regular and has uniformly non-empty interior, we prove existence and uniqueness of solutions, as well as continuous data dependence with respect to the sup-norm.
RECURRENT NEURAL NETWORK FOR MONITORING MOUSE EMBRYONIC STEM CELL COLONY IN VITRO USING TIME-LAPSE FLUORESCENCE MICROSCOPY IMAGES
Authors: Chu Slo-Li , Abe Kuniya , Yokota Hideo , Tsai Ming-Dar
Published: May 2022

Embryonic stem cells represent a cellular resource for basic biological studies and used as medically relevant cells in vitro. Time-lapse fluorescence microscopy images taken during cell culture are frequently used to monitor time-series morphology changes and status transitions of embryonic stem cell (ESC) colonies, and to select culture medium for maintaining ESCs in undifferentiated or early differentiated stages. Recurrent Neural Network (RNN)-based prediction of time-lapse images generated in future culture can be an effective method for monitoring. Because status transitions of ESC colonies are usually complete in a few consecutive frames of time-lapse images, this study proposes a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) structure that incorporates a few new images taken from incubators to learn the newest colony morphology and status for a new RNN training and thus generate predicted time-lapse images. Image processing procedures of entropy, bi-lateral filter and convex-hull calculations are implemented to extract colony regions on the images. Morphology changes and status transitions are then calculated using the extracted ESC colonies. The experiment results show predicted time-lapse images in 5h future and the colony morphology and status transition calculation give accurate visualization and quantitative analyses to monitor the mouse ESCs in vitro at the undifferentiated or early differentiated stages.
RISK ANALYSIS AND CLASSIFICATION OF MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION FROM CAROTID INTIMA MEDIA THICKNESS OF B-MODE ULTRASOUND IMAGE USING VARIOUS MACHINE LEARNING AND DEEP LEARNING TECHNIQUES
Authors: Prabha P. Lakshmi , Jayanthy A. K.
Published: May 2022

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a life threatening condition that causes death in developing nations due to blockage in the blood vessel of the coronary artery that supplies blood to the heart. Any blockage in blood vessel of carotid artery located in the neck region can predict the risk of heart failure. Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT) measured from carotid artery supports in the estimation of heart failure. In this study, cardiovascular risk is considered based on the CIMT thickness of carotid artery blood vessels. In this paper, CIMT and Framingham risk score (FRS) boundary have been determined for both normal and cardiovascular disease (CVD) subjects, which aids in the prediction of heart failure. For 55 subjects with normal condition and 55 subjects with CVD disease, CIMT values were measured by utilizing an effective ultrasound examination system. Biochemical parameters were also measured for all the 110 subjects to predict the FRS score. Student t-test and Spearmans correlation performed showed significant results with p-value less than 0.01 for CIMT, biochemical parameters and FRS score. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) has been plotted for measured CIMT value and FRS value indicates with an accuracy of 71%. The performance was also determined by comparing various classification techniques using machine learning and deep learning. Results observed through machine learning show that random forest, multilayer perceptron and K-nearest neighbor classifiers used in classification techniques give more superior accuracy of 79% and sensitivity of 78%. To improvise the investigation, deep learning technique using carotid artery ultrasound image of 1909 dataset has been used. Deep learning CNN architecture using VGG19 implemented gave an accuracy of 98% with sensitivity 98% and specificity 99%. It was also observed from the 20% data used for validation that 199 subjects are without risk of MI and 178 subjects were predicted with a risk of MI in future. Further relative risk analysis performed with FRS and CIMT showed that a person with low risk of FRS has 26% chances of getting abnormal CIMT and MI risk in future.
A Forever Student Navigating Higher Education
Authors: English Cathie
Published: May 2022

This chapter reflects upon the author's first-generation student status and her transition to higher education after 22 years in a secondary ELA classroom. It recognizes the obstacles faced by first-generation students and how the twists and turns in navigating higher education impacts a career and scholarly life. It also reflects upon her graduate work in English (Composition and Rhetoric) emphasizing how doctoral work while teaching secondary full-time informed her secondary classroom, and then, conversely, how her secondary ELA career informed her instruction of pre-service teachers and in-service teachers in her ELA methods courses. It also emphasizes how her non-traditional status also shaped who she became as a professor of English who understands first-generation students' needs and advocates for more first-generation faculty in higher education because they bring a wealth of lived experience that truly benefits all learners in higher education, but specifically other first-generation students.
My Process of Becoming
Authors: May Lauren Ashley
Published: May 2022

This chapter focuses on the author's process of transitioning into a position as a doctoral candidate. This journey has assisted in the understanding of personal identities and the world. Within this chapter, personal experiences are used to exemplify and examine the ways in which the author has worked to navigate aspects of both personal and scholarly identities that have been and continue to be under construction. Examining transactions with texts and writings, prioritizing mental health, accepting and utilizing support from advisors, and seeking out conversations with faculty and other doctoral students have all assisted in navigating the challenges that have arisen throughout the doctoral journey. This process of becoming is further examined through the exploration of various positions within the dialogical self.
To Live and Die as a Teacher
Authors: Van Allen Jennifer
Published: May 2022

There are many pathways and motivations in the decision to choose education as a career. For some, teaching is an innate quality that seemingly comes naturally. This chapter tells the story of this author's identity development as a teacher and lifelong learner from playing pretend schoolteacher to professor of graduate teacher education candidates. Told through the eyes of the author, and contextualized with memories and perspectives of others, this is the story of the early influential experiences that led to education as a career pathway, the loneliness of being a beginning teacher, the tribulations of young children cracking the code of literacy in elementary classrooms, the growing awareness of the inequities in our education system as a teacher leader, and the struggle to maintain an identity as a practitioner in academia. Along the way, the author highlights life lessons learned in each phase and how they aided her along her career path to higher education.
Writing My Way Back Home
Authors: Jordan Adam Wade
Published: May 2022

In this chapter, the author candidly outlines his pathway through higher education. At present, he is an associate professor of special education at the College of Charleston. He's been fortunate to teach in many places and settings, from alternative high school to the university. The purpose of this chapter is to, frankly, write a chapter he wishes he could have read at 20 years old. Too often we tell the story of higher education as being one requiring specific decisions and targeted accomplishments. In reality, there is no one “path” to higher education, if that is what someone wants to pursue. His hope with this chapter provides an honest, unorthodox voice that helps support any fellow academics from the working-poor class, the rural South, or any other marginalized space. Hopefully, as we offer more diverse stories, we can demystify what it means to be a teacher, to be an academic, in a space that has long excluded many.
Motherhood, the Tenure Track, and Leadership
Authors: Lacina Jan
Published: May 2022

The term glass ceiling became widespread with Christine Williams's article in The Wall Street Journal. She used the metaphor to describe barriers that women face in attempting to advance within corporate organizations. In the past, women were unable to reach top positions due to discrimination and gender-specific roles. More than a decade later, Williams reconsidered the glass ceiling metaphor and added the metaphor of a glass escalator to describe the challenges women face in female-dominated professions. She explained that, whether careers are female-dominated, male-dominated, or gender-balanced, men assume leadership positions at faster rates than women do. When men are hired, they are often fast tracked to leadership. Williams explained that, when men are working in female-dominated professions, their ascent into leadership roles is effortless and inevitable, just like riding an escalator. In this chapter, the author discusses challenges faced within academia.
Creating Culturally Sustainable Literacy Experiences Through Home and Community Connections
Authors: Manzone Jessica A. , Nyberg Julia L.
Published: May 2022

The need for culturally and linguistically sustainable teaching is a call that all educators must answer. Current literacy practices focus on the teaching of skills and strategies through a disciplinary lens with limited connections to students' home and community. This chapter presents a model for creating balanced literacy experiences that honor and value the diversity of Black, Latinx, Indigenous, and multilingual learners. Titled the Home and Community Connections Model, this framework provides both teachers and learners with a series of prompts to generate personalized connections to any literacy experience. This chapter presents definitions for the home and community connections prompts, connects them to comprehension skills and strategies, and provides classroom examples to guide teachers in reorienting their practice through the student's home and community assets. Reflective questions and recommendations for implementation are also provided. Therefore, this chapter provides the impetus for creating authentic and culturally sustaining literacy experiences for all learners.
A Practitioner's Guide to Responsive School Leadership
Authors: Cager Bethel E.
Published: May 2022

This chapter examines the role of culturally responsive school leadership and how it supports culturally responsive literacy instruction. A progressive and comprehensive approach called the 5Rs of Responsive Leadership is presented as a framework to guide school administrators on their culturally responsive journeys. The phases of the 5Rs of Responsive Leadership are reflect, relate, represent, respond, and revisit. Within this chapter, this leadership approach is supported by and aligned to the Professional Standards of Educational Leaders (PSEL) and the lived experiences of five school and district leaders. The 5Rs of Responsive Leadership can be utilized by school and district leaders across all grade levels and communities as a blueprint to the all-inclusive work required to improve instruction, student achievement, and school culture and climate in a manner that is sustainable and rewarding for all stakeholders.
Fundamental Concepts of Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability
Authors: Antonaras Alexandros
Published: May 2022

Social value is created when resources, inputs, processes, or policies are combined to generate improvements in the lives of individuals or society as a whole. It is crucial for any organization to be able to demonstrate the value it creates by its very existence. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has never been more important. Citizens nowadays demand a responsible business behavior from all kinds of organizations, corporations, and their leaders who have become aware of the crucial role of social responsibility in seeking performance excellence and sustainable growth. This chapter introduces the concept of CSR and explains its importance providing the historical background that made it synonymous to sustainability. The benefits resulting from CSR are briefly presented while the main recent developments in the area of CSR and sustainability are analyzed. Particularly, emphasis is given on the 2030 Agenda, the European Directive (2014/95/EU) on non-financial reporting, and the recent trends for socially responsible investments.
Analyzing and Developing Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Al-Jenaibi Badreya
Published: May 2022

CSR is the obligation of businessmen to follow specific policies for making decisions or to do certain actions with the purpose of recognizing the need of society or any ethical factor to be followed in the entity. It is also for mangers to have responsibility for the public good, where that includes investigating whether the action is effective and contributes in promoting the public good and for advancing the basic societal beliefs to manage and contribute in its stability, harmony and strength. Corporate managers are normally appointed as being public trustees. The UAE offers insights into CSR because other Middle Eastern countries have not adopted the concept as quickly as the UAE. One indication of CSR in the UAE is its transparent firms. This article explores the current stage of CSR implementation in Arab countries, with special attention given to the UAE. An in-depth study was conducted to explore CSR implementation among local managers. Primary data from 198 questionnaires and case studies were analyzed to obtain valuable insights into the current state of CSR in the UAE. Key concepts are highlighted regarding the definition and practices of CSR in the UAE. Secondary data from both western and eastern cultures was also analyzed to examine the extent of adoption and adaptation of CSR and corporate philanthropy from multiple perspectives. Findings suggest all organizations, both local and multinational, must consider environmental and stakeholder interests in order to become global. Some confusion appears to exist between the concept of philanthropy and CSR. Some CSR highlighted by firms includes following regulations effectively and efficiently, adopting environmentally friendly business processes, organizing seminars, and creating awareness of the concept among peers. Although CSR is maturing in the Middle East, UAE firms need to improve CSR to compete with the practices that have become the CSR standard in western countries. In the last few years, governments and local organizations have strictly enforced business ethics and environmental regulations to support the growth of CSR in the country.
The Relationship Between CSR, Corporate Governance, and Firm Performance
Authors: Kammoun Souhaila , Loukil Sahar , Ben Romdhane Youssra , Ibenrissoul Abdelmajid
Published: May 2022

Research has been conducted to extend our understanding of CSR by revealing CG mechanism antecedent effects on firm social engagements. In spite of this, few studies aimed to understand the impact of the performance of those mechanisms on CSR. To our knowledge, our study is the first to measure CG performance and its role in the expansion of CSR in an emerging country. We also analyze some component of firm performance that could potentially affect a firm's social commitment. Using a data survey questionnaire consisting of 37 items assessing CSR engagement measured by a self- constructed index and firm level data of 76 listed Moroccan firms, empirical results underline the impact of corporate governance performance and firm's performance on CSR. These results suggest that governance mechanism performance and firm performance are principal drivers of CSR particularly for big business. Debts have shown a reducing effect. Thus, our study of CSR commitment index allows for a clearer and more robust assessment of CG on Moroccan firm CSR activities.
Corporate Social Entrepreneurship
Authors: Vallejo-Fiallos M. del Rocío
Published: May 2022

Entrepreneurship is a strategic opportunity for human development, on which MNCs play a vital role in the spillover effect. This chapter aims (1) to illustrate corporate social entrepreneurship (CSE) practices to generate social value and (2) to explore their ethical constraint alleviation. Using an internet-mediated research, a sustainability analysis of seventy companies from different countries and sizes evidenced that CSE is a tool for economic growth and good governance. This study brings new insights to the field of CSR and its role in sustainability by incorporating the entrepreneurship discipline. A corporate social innovation business model is proposed as a core business strategy. Also, Ecuadorian CSE practices and their different perspectives can serve as references for future studies.
Analysis of Entrepreneurial Dynamics in Spain
Authors: Gallardo-Vázquez Dolores , Sánchez-Domínguez Juan de la Cruz
Published: May 2022

Entrepreneurship is becoming one of Spain's economic driving forces. The Triple Bottom Line concept has gained notoriety in the last 30 years, creating a theoretical framework that justifies the measuring of the organizations' results not only economically, but also socially and environmentally, which has raised the awareness of the need to add Corporate Social Responsibility to the organizations' strategies. The goals of this study are to analyse the current state of entrepreneurship in Spain, to link entrepreneurship with CSR and to establish which aspects of CSR can be challenging for entrepreneurs.
The Corporate Social Responsibility Meme as a Business Foundation for Economic Peacemaking
Authors: Block Corrie Jonn
Published: May 2022

This chapter presents economic peacemaking in historical business terms through an exploration of the meaning of competition in the 20th century. The 19th century meme, “survival of the fittest,” may be considered a quality of natural law that has been used to defend laissez faire capitalism, which has at times produced economic outcomes that are good for a select few at the expense of humanity at large. The counter-concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR), which was developed in the mid-20th century, presented an alternative view of the corporation as citizen, and called for the compromise of profits for the sake of the betterment of the community in which the business existed. This chapter explores the historical development of these concepts in the social science context of social Darwinism vs. neo-Darwinism, concluding that economic peacemaking through stakeholder management and CSR implementation is an inherently natural concept and preferable for humanity to unregulated competition.
Working With New Media on Strategic Corporate Social Responsibility Campaigns
Authors: Ulaş Sevilay
Published: May 2022

The reflections of recent developments in information communication technologies are seen in communication environments. The dramatic rise of new media vehicles is a remarkable point. New media applications are seen in daily life as well as in the process of corporate communication. At this point, it is important to note that corporations cannot be considered separate from their social environments and that they have a responsibility for their society. The social responsibility practices that play an important role in the shareholder communication, which is a part of corporate communication are noteworthy. At this point, the choice of communication means is of great importance in delivering the messages of social responsibility campaigns and creating the desired awareness. It is seen that new media tools and environments are preferred for transmitting the messages of these campaigns. According to this study, it can be seen that social media can be accepted as an effective and efficient communication channels on processing of corporate social responsibility.
Determinants of Sustainability Reporting in Medium Enterprises
Authors: Paiva Inna Sousa , Gavancha Irina Filipa
Published: May 2022

The importance of the relationship between sustainability and accountability in the business world has increased in the last few years. This chapter examines the determinants of sustainability reporting in 100 medium enterprises operating in Portugal with an excellent financial performance over the past three years. The main results demonstrate that firm characteristics, such as size, ownership structure, and sales growth, contribute significantly to explaining sustainability in these firms. The authors also find that medium firms exhibit a lack of interest in changing their business conduct to improve sustainability. Sustainability accounting is in a relatively early phase of development and the authors hope that this study will further the understanding of the firm characteristics that explain sustainability in medium enterprises.
Effects of Social Entrepreneurship on Organizational Performance
Authors: Valle Mestre Ledian , García Pérez. Matilde , Jiménez-Jiménez Daniel
Published: May 2022

Social entrepreneurship (SE) is a crucial way to deal with the social problems produced by the last economic crisis. However, social entrepreneurship most creates economic results that contribute to supporting the activity of the organization. This study analyzes empirically the effects of social entrepreneurship on organizational performance, as well as the indirect effect through corporate social responsibility (CSR). Based on data collected from 213 social economy companies, structural equations models have been used to verify the research hypotheses. The results obtained confirm the positive effect of social entrepreneurship on economic performance and announce the existence of the mediatory effect of the practices of corporate social responsibility.
Local Authorities' Incubator as a Tool Supporting the Synergies Between Companies That Apply Corporate Social Responsibility and Social Enterprises
Authors: Sepetis Anastasios K. , Sanida Marilena G. , Pierrakos George
Published: May 2022

The local authorities' incubator for social enterprises should be supporting the connection of local companies that apply CSR with social enterprises that are trying to succeed social value. The research in this chapter relied on a systematic literature review. After reviewing the literature, a methodology has been developed that describes the process of designing and implementing a local authorities' incubator and the synergies with social enterprises and CSR. The benefit of a local authorities' incubator in the field of social entrepreneurship is the facilitation of new social enterprises to overcome knowledge barriers and implement best business practices. Finally, in this chapter, it is suggested that the cooperation between local companies that apply CSR and local social enterprises under the guidance and support of local authorities' incubator could create synergies and produce new local certified PGI (protected geographical indication) or PDO (protected designations of origin) social/ethical/green/fair-trade products and services and promote the local economy.
Healthcare Systems and Corporate Social Responsibility Communication
Authors: Tomaselli Gianpaolo , Garg Lalit , Gupta Vipul , Xuereb Peter A. , Buttigieg Sandra C , Vassallo Paula
Published: May 2022

This article aims to analyze corporate social responsibility (CSR) communication in today's health care systems. The authors investigate the importance of CSR communication and the use of both traditional and interactive technologies for healthcare CSR communication, adopting quantitative research methodologies. In order to understand different applications of the topic, the article examines and compares best practices regarding CSR communication between two extremely different countries and contexts: namely Malta and India. Results emphasize a growing attention on healthcare CSR communication in both countries. The key finding observed is that healthcare organizations are using a mixed strategy to communicate their CSR activities. Indeed, interactive technologies enable several advantages to organizations than traditional tools (such as better dialogue and interaction with different stakeholders, speed, low costs, easy access to information), as well as they require investments and costs in infrastructures and skills/competencies for their implementation.
Digitalisation of Mandatory Social Expenditure Targets in India
Authors: Dayanandan Ajit , Kuntluru Sudershan
Published: May 2022

The chapter examines the impact of mandatory CSR expenditure targets of firms on financial performance in India. Extant studies have shown using event study methodology that announcement effect of compulsory CSR expenditure targets on abnormal returns of these firms is negative. Further, it is examined on how financial performances of these firms which met or exceeded the targets (Socially responsible firms) or were not able to meet the targets (socially irresponsible firms) differ. Based on the data for 1,460 firm years for the period 2015 to 2018 in the Indian context, the empirical analysis shows that their financial performance was negatively impacted because of these mandated CSR targets. Available evidence shows that CSR expenditure that spurs digitalisation and technological innovation helps the poorest and most vulnerable which enables them to lead a healthy, productive life.