bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Associations Between Urban Youth’s Race and Ethnicity, Social–Emotional Well-Being, and Health-Promoting Behaviors
Authors: Quezada-Horne Nelia M. , Jones Lani V. , Benedict Melody S. , Lee Eunju
Published: November 2024

Multiple aspects of social–emotional well-being have been identified as influential factors in adults’ and children’s physical activity and nutrition. However, the associations between social–emotional well-being, race and ethnicity, and health-promoting behaviors among urban youth remain understudied. This cross-sectional pilot study examines the relationships between social–emotional well-being and health-promoting behaviors. The study also explores how race and ethnicity affect physical activity and consumption of nutrient-dense foods among urban youth ages 11–19 ( N = 100) in a small Northeastern city in the United States. The results do not indicate any associations between social–emotional well-being measures and health-promoting behaviors measured as fulfilling physical activity and fruit and vegetable intake guidelines. However, we found significant racial and ethnic differences in health-promoting behaviors. These findings indicate that prevention programs and policies aimed at enhancing urban youth’s engagement in physical activity and consumption of nutrient-rich foods need to be tailored based on racial, ethnic, and cultural contexts.
A Video-based Lifting Action Recognition Using Rank-Altered Kinematic Feature Pairs
Authors: Jung SeHee , Su Bingyi , Lu Lu , Qing Liwei , Xu Xu
Published: November 2024

Low-back musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the primary work-related injuries among manual material handling (MMH) workers, who are frequently exposed to repetitive lifting. To prevent low-back MSDs in the workplace, we present a video-based lifting action recognition method using rank-altered kinematic feature pairs, called top-scoring pairs (TSPs). We derive TSPs from a video dataset containing lifting and other activities commonly seen in MMH. These TSPs collectively classify each frame as lifting and non-lifting. The validation process involves evaluating classification performance. The proposed method minimizes computational and memory requirements while achieving performance comparable to more complex methods with greater computational demands. This makes it suitable for systems with limited hardware resources, thereby providing extensive feasibility across a variety of MMH environments to improve workplace safety.
Māori ancestral knowledge of communication
Authors: Eustace Megan Paige , King Jeanette , Le Heron Campbell , McGarr Katrina , Theys Catherine
Published: November 2024

Emerging from a need for culturally grounded speech-language therapy in Aotearoa (New Zealand), this study examined Māori (Indigenous people of New Zealand) values and perspectives on communication held within a data set of 2,669 pepeha (ancestral sayings). Analysis of literal translations, context, literary features, and philosophical meanings led to identification of 368 sayings relevant to communication. Thematic analysis of these sayings resulted in eight themes: (a) āhuatanga karere (message and messenger characteristics), (b) mana reo (power and influence of language), (c) reo ā-tinana (body language), (d) te whē (sound), (e) tohu (signs, instructions, marks, visions, omens), (f) whakarongo (listening, hearing, obeying), (g) whanaungatanga (relationships), and (h) whatumanawa (open expression of emotion). These themes identify a holistic view, beyond interpersonal interactions, emphasising the interconnectedness of the human, spiritual, and natural worlds in ancestral communication. Findings contribute a deeper understanding of traditional Māori communication and add to the foundations guiding culturally grounded therapeutic approaches.
“I have a sis in the profession for life, that’s who my mentor is”: evaluating a pilot mentoring programme for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander speech pathology students and professionals
Authors: Sheehan (Yuin) Alice , Butler (Kuku Yalanji Wulgurukaba) Corrine , Lewis (Iman) Tara , Baker Caroline , Foster Abby , Davenport Rachel , O’Rourke Michelle , Smith James A , Simpson Andrea
Published: November 2024

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples face significant challenges in accessing mainstream health services due to the ongoing impacts of racism, colonisation, and intergenerational trauma. To address health inequalities, it is important to build Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce capacity in the health professions where there is significant under-representation. A pilot mentoring programme was developed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ear and hearing health professionals and students, which aimed to understand their expectations and experiences. Six participants enrolled in the study, two mentors and four mentees, all from a speech pathology background. The study found that maintaining relationships with other Aboriginal speech pathologists was vital for longevity in the profession. The study stresses the importance of workplaces and universities ensuring that individuals are not thrown into culturally unsafe situations and that they are culturally safe and responsive.
Social ruination and alternative materialities in a dissonant landscape of modernity: The case of GAP in Halfeti, Turkey
Authors: Kuijpers Anna Elisabeth (Annelies)
Published: November 2024

I examine in this article state-led infrastructural projects as embodiments of modernity and the way their divergent material transformations “play out on the ground.” I argue that such projects, through the way they transform material surroundings, provide a commentary on these modernization processes and surpass the intention of their creators. I focus on Halfeti, a town impacted by the southeast Anatolian project (GAP), a state-led damming project in southeast Turkey. GAP drastically transformed the social and material fabric of the town with the aim of developing the region by becoming modern. GAP involved forced relocation, the construction of uninhabitable zones, the redistribution of habitable territory, and the imposition of living standards on individuals, and can thus be held accountable for ruination. I focus on the way GAP has reused and strategically appropriated ruins for political purposes, simultaneously I take the processual part of ruination, into account. Meaning an outcome of a situation in which one is left behind with material leftovers after destruction, including personal feelings and emotions that continue to play a role in the aftermath of a such a violent event. I explain how renovated houses in Old-Halfeti, as well as newly built structures in New-Halfeti evoke social ruination. Subsequently, through alternative materialities, as expression givers to complex stratifications of histories which are ignored in dominant state-led infrastructure projects, the impact and importance of neglected and submerged infrastructures are understood. Alternative materialities give way to the agency of the material, and the way it brings about affect, shapes longing or nostalgia and expresses different histories. By considering the intertwined dynamics of social ruination, political appropriation of spaces, and the unveiling of alternative materialities, a more nuanced understanding of this landscape emerges and demonstrates the dissonance of modernity.
Visualising truth-telling through Indigenous community-specific vernacular photography in Canada and Australia
Authors: Hughes Karen , Racette Sherry Farrell , Trevorrow Ellen , Richards Rebecca
Published: November 2024

The emphasis in Indigenous photographic scholarship has largely been on Indigenous subjects viewed through a colonial lens. It is often assumed that impoverished communities did not have cameras or photographic archives, given the vulnerability and mobility of their lives. However, cameras, although scarce, were present. This is demonstrated in the photographic legacies of Ngarrindjeri families in south-eastern Australia and Qu’Appelle Valley Métis families in Saskatchewan, Canada, investigated in this article. Both groups share similar histories in marginalised settings – ‘one mile camps’ in Australia and ‘Road Allowance’ communities in Canada. The archives created by generations of Indigenous photographers are both familiar and unique. They depict smiling groups posed in front of cars and homes, although the backdrops are very different to the middle-class and suburban settings typical of vernacular photography more widely. Photographic archives in these communities are comparatively sparse, and thus more precious. Importantly, we see the matriarchs who anchored large, extended families, and evidence of their Indigenous knowledges and the survival skills that provided for them. Working with these photographs in deep engagement with communities and their long-held knowledge reanimates these images in contemporary contexts to facilitate the reclaiming of land, connection and family. We argue that such images represent unparalleled forms of truth-telling, offering a nuanced visual history unavailable from other sources.
Total Contact Casting Remains an Effective Modality for Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Zhang Jason , Sadek Mikel , Iannuzzi Lou , Rockman Caron , Garg Karan , Taffet Allison , Ratner Molly , Berland Todd , Maldonado Thomas , Jacobowitz Glenn , Ross Frank
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Total contact casting (TCC) is used to promote wound closure in diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs); however, this technique is underused today. This study aims to further evaluate the efficacy of TCC in a large cohort, including patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of patients with DFUs who underwent TCC from 2017 to 2021. PAD was defined as absence of pedal pulse or ABI <0.9. Demographic data, DFU characteristics, and peripheral arterial intervention were evaluated. Outcomes included complete healing, healing time, and rate of major amputation. Subgroup analysis was performed on patients undergoing peripheral intervention.

Results

152 patients underwent TCC. Mean age was 58.8 ± 12.1 years, 79.6% were male, and 26.3% had PAD. Mean DFU size was 8.27 ± 9.9 cm2, with mean depth 0.61 ± 0.49 cm. 112 patients had palpable pedal pulses on the affected extremity (73.7%). Average ABI was 1.12 ± 0.22 (n = 90). Complete healing was observed in 122 (80.3%) patients, with average healing time of 81.5 ± 57.1 days. Thirteen (8.6%) patients eventually required amputation (3 major). When compared to patients with healed DFUs, those without healing had higher rates of amputation (39.1% vs 3.1%, P < .001), intervention (43.4% vs 17.8%, P = .006), and noncompliance (39.1% vs 20.2%, P = .046). Thirty-three patients underwent revascularization, undergoing angioplasty (81.8%), atherectomy (63.6%), stent (15.2%), and/or bypass (9.1%). Interventions were performed in aortoiliac (3.0%), femoropopliteal (45.5%), and tibial (72.7%) segments. Twenty-two (66.7%) patients who underwent revascularization completely healed. Patients requiring revascularization were more likely to have previous intervention (57.6% vs 13.4%, P < .0001) and incompressible vessels (36.4% vs 7.6%, P < .00001), with lower ABIs (0.94 ± 0.25 vs 1.17 ± 0.18, P = .0008) compared to patients without intervention.

Conclusions

TCC remains an effective option for treatment of DFUs, as most were completely healed. Patients with PAD may benefit from TCC and revascularization, however, healing rates are lower in this cohort, necessitating the need for close observation.
Review of studies on the design optimization of hydraulic cartridge valves
Authors: Xi Xiangshuo , Wang Qingfeng
Published: November 2024

Hydraulic cartridge valves are extensively used across numerous industries, attributed to their exceptional integration and potent flow capacity. To effectively address the varied load conditions, environmental influences, and durability demands in different contexts, it is crucial for designers to optimize these valves. Currently, a significant number of scholars have undertaken invaluable research on the design optimization of cartridge valves. The objective of this paper is to propose research concepts for the design optimization of hydraulic cartridge valves by analyzing the current literature and thereby boost the performance of hydraulic cartridge valve systems. This paper adopts a mixed review method, elaborating on the literature search methodology for reviews concerning cartridge valve design optimization. The obtained results are subjected to quantitative analysis. Following this, a thorough review of the identified literature is provided, focusing on the methodology and performance concerns of hydraulic cartridge valve design optimization. Finally, the prerequisites and challenges associated with the cartridge valve design optimization approach are discussed in detail, considering aspects such as compact lightweight design, reliability enhancement, and intelligent design optimization.
A Registered Conceptual Replication and Extension of Carter and Weber (2010): Generalized Trust, Lie Prevalence, and Deception Detection
Authors: Levine Timothy R. , Markowitz David M. , Serota Kim B. , Brunn Miranda V.
Published: November 2024

This paper provides a conceptual replication and extension of Carter and Weber investigating the effects of generalized trust on deception detection. Three alternative predictions were tested: trust lowers accuracy, trust increases accuracy, or trust facilitates accuracy for truths but inhibits lie detection. Compared to Carter and Weber, our experiment involved different stimulus materials, a much larger sample, and the inclusion of a lie prevalence measure. As anticipated, Carter and Weber’s finding were not replicated. Neither generalized trust nor lie prevalence predicted deception detection accuracy or truth bias. We speculate about why generalized trust appears to play little role in deception detection.
Older adult immigrants’ experiences of being hospitalized: a qualitative study
Authors: Vestgarden Lisbeth Alnes , Dahlborg Elisabeth , Strunck Jeanne , Aasen Elin Margrethe
Published: November 2024

Background

Access to equal health services is a key issue in most European countries. In the coming years, immigrants will constitute an increasing proportion of older adults in Europe, and their need for healthcare services will likely increase. Healthcare services must prepare for such encounters to make them equitable. Older immigrants’ hospitalization experiences require elucidation. Their patient experiences can provide important knowledge when the healthcare system is working toward equal and equitable healthcare services.

Methods

This study employed an exploratory qualitative design. Data were collected through narrative interviews with a purposive sample of eight older adult immigrants, aged 61–79 years. Patient narratives were analyzed using thematic analysis with a reflexive approach, as outlined by Braun and Clarke.

Results

The analysis created three themes that shed light on older adult immigrants’ experiences as hospital patients. The themes conveyed experiences related to challenging involvement and interaction, notions of what an ideal patient should be like, and participants not feeling valued as a person.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that communication between healthcare professionals and older adult immigrant patients is deficient: older immigrants in this study did not make their voices heard nor were they invited to participate by healthcare professionals. This contributes to limited involvement in assessment, treatment, and care. The older immigrants felt that they were not valued nor met as unique individuals. The findings indicate that health policy goals regarding patient participation and person-centered care are not met when older immigrants are patients. Consequently, the experiences of older adult immigrants in this study indicate that equal health services are at risk.
OXPHOS mediators in acute myeloid leukemia patients: Prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for personalized medicine
Authors: Abdel-Aziz Amal Kamal
Published: November 2024

Background

Despite significant advances in comprehending its tumorigenic role, the prognostic and therapeutic potential of targeting oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remain obscure.

Methods

The prognostic value of ~ 200 mitochondrial/OXPHOS genes as candidate biomarkers was examined in AML patients over ~ 10 years follow-up using Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analyses. Furthermore, the transcript levels of the assessed markers were inspected in healthy bone marrow tissues and the dependencies of AML cells on the assessed genes were examined.

Results

Elevated levels of NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase subunit A6 (NDUFA6), succinate dehydrogenase complex flavoprotein subunit A (SDHA), solute carrier family 25 member 12 (SLC25A12), electron transfer flavoprotein subunit beta (ETFB), carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) were associated with poor overall survival of AML patients. SLC25A12, ETFB and CPT1A were overexpressed in AML compared to healthy tissues. Cytochrome B5 type A (CYB5A)high, SLC25A12high and GPX4high AML patients displayed higher levels of circulating and engrafted blasts compared to low-expressing cohorts. NPM1 and SRSF2 mutations were frequent in SDHAlow and CPT1Alow AML patients respectively. FLT3-ITD, NPM1 and IDH1 mutations were prevalent in CPT1Ahigh AML patients. FLT3-ITD AMLs were more dependent on OXPHOS.

Conclusions

This study identifies NDUFA6 and SDHA as novel companion prognostic biomarkers which might present a rational strategy for personalized therapy of AML patients.

Graphical Abstract
Thermo-amplifier circuit in probiotic E. coli for stringently temperature-controlled release of a novel antibiotic
Authors: Dey Sourik , Seyfert Carsten E. , Fink-Straube Claudia , Kany Andreas M. , Müller Rolf , Sankaran Shrikrishnan
Published: November 2024

Peptide drugs have seen rapid advancement in biopharmaceutical development, with over 80 candidates approved globally. Despite their therapeutic potential, the clinical translation of peptide drugs is hampered by challenges in production yields and stability. Engineered bacterial therapeutics is a unique approach being explored to overcome these issues by using bacteria to produce and deliver therapeutic compounds at the body site of use. A key advantage of this technology is the possibility to control drug delivery within the body in real time using genetic switches. However, the performance of such genetic switches suffers when used to control drugs that require post-translational modifications or are toxic to the host. In this study, these challenges were experienced when attempting to establish a thermal switch for the production of a ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptide antibiotic, darobactin, in probiotic E. coli. These challenges were overcome by developing a thermo-amplifier circuit that combined the thermal switch with a T7 RNA Polymerase. Due to the orthogonality of the Polymerase, this strategy overcame limitations imposed by the host transcriptional machinery. This circuit enabled production of pathogen-inhibitory levels of darobactin at 40 °C while maintaining leakiness below the detection limit at 37 °C. Furthermore, the thermo-amplifier circuit sustained gene expression beyond the thermal induction duration such that with only 2 h of induction, the bacteria were able to produce pathogen-inhibitory levels of darobactin. This performance was maintained even in physiologically relevant simulated conditions of the intestines that include bile salts and low nutrient levels.

Graphical Abstract
Relationship between malaria vector survival, infectivity, and insecticide-treated net use in western Kenya
Authors: Abel Lucy , Kimachas Emma , Omollo Evans , Nalianya Erick , Chepkwony Tabitha , Kipkoech Joseph , Amunga Mark , Wekesa Aggrey , Namae Jane , Kahindi Samuel , Mangeni Judith , Lapp Zena , Markwalter Christine F. , Taylor Steve M. , Obala Andrew , Prudhomme O’Meara Wendy
Published: November 2024

Background

Significant effort and resources have been invested to control malaria transmission in sub-Saharan Africa, but it remains a major public health problem. For the parasite to be transmitted, the female Anopheles vector must survive 10–14 days following an infective bite to allow Plasmodium gametocytes to develop into infectious sporozoites. The goal of this study was to assess factors associated with wild-caught Anopheles survival and infection following host-seeking and indoor resting.

Methods

The study was conducted between January 2020 to March 2022 in a longitudinal cohort of 75 households in 5 villages including a total of 755 household members in Bungoma County, Kenya. Monthly adult mosquito collection was conducted by attenuated aspiration in all enrolled households, and mosquitoes were reared for 7 days. The daily mortality rate was determined through day 7. All mosquitoes were morphologically identified. Female Anopheles were dissected, and species-level members of the Anopheles gambiae complex were resolved by molecular methods. The abdomens of all samples were processed for Plasmodium falciparum oocyst detection by PCR.

Results

Within a 25-month period, the total numbers of non-Anopheles and Anopheles mosquitoes collected indoors were 12,843 and 712, respectively. Anopheles gambiae and An. funestus were the major vectors, though their distributions varied between different villages; 61.2% (n = 436/712) of the Anopheles mosquitoes survived up to day 7, with the lowest mortality rate recorded on day 5 of captivity. The survival rate also varied between the different Anopheles species. Six hundred eighty-three of 712 mosquito abdomens were tested for P. falciparum; 7.8% (53/683) tested positive for P. falciparum, with An. funestus having a higher (10%) prevalence than An. gambiae s.s. (6.0%, p = 0.095, Pearson Chi-square test). The proportion of household members sleeping under a bednet the night before mosquito collection varied across time and village. Anopheles funestus survival times were refractory to household ITN usage, and An. gambaie s.s. survival was reduced only under very high (100%) ITN usage.

Conclusions

Despite ITN usage, mosquitoes still acquired blood meals and P. falciparum infections. Survival differed across species and was inversely correlated with high ITN usage in the household but not oocyst development.

Graphical Abstract
Efficacy and safety of upadacitinib in patients with active ankylosing spondylitis refractory to biologic therapy: 2-year clinical and radiographic results from the open-label extension of the SELECT-AXIS 2 study
Authors: Baraliakos Xenofon , van der Heijde Désirée , Sieper Joachim , Inman Robert Davies , Kameda Hideto , Maksymowych Walter Peter , Lagunes-Galindo Ivan , Bu Xianwei , Wung Peter , Kato Koji , Shmagel Anna , Deodhar Atul
Published: November 2024

Background

The efficacy and safety of upadacitinib in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and inadequate response/intolerance to biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARD-IR) were evaluated through 1 year in the SELECT-AXIS 2 study. Here, we assess 2-year efficacy, safety, and imaging outcomes in SELECT-AXIS 2.

Methods

Patients who received continuous upadacitinib, and those who switched from placebo to upadacitinib at week 14, could enter the open-label extension (OLE). Efficacy endpoints included Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society (ASAS) and Axial Spondyloarthritis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) responses, and changes from baseline in measures of disease activity, back pain, function, and quality of life. Radiographic progression was evaluated using the modified Stoke Ankylosing Spondylitis Spinal Score (mSASSS). As observed (AO) and AO with non-responder imputation (AO-NRI) analyses were used for binary endpoints; AO with mixed-effects model for repeated measures (AO-MMRM) for continuous endpoints; and AO-analysis of covariance for mSASSS. Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) in patients receiving ≥ 1 upadacitinib dose through week 104 are presented as events (E)/100 patient-years (PY). Subgroup analyses were performed by prior tumor necrosis factor/interleukin-17 inhibitor exposure and bDMARD lack of efficacy/intolerance.

Results

Of 420 patients who entered the bDMARD-IR AS study, 409 entered the OLE, and 331 (continuous upadacitinib, n = 163; placebo to upadacitinib, n = 168) completed week 104. Improvements in efficacy measures were sustained through the OLE, with similar response rates between the continuous upadacitinib and placebo to upadacitinib groups at week 104. At week 104, 64.9% and 61.7% of patients, respectively, had achieved ASAS 40% response (AO-NRI). Mean changes from baseline were similar between the two groups at week 104 across measures (ASDAS: -2.1 and -2.0; total back pain: -4.9 and -4.6, respectively; AO-MMRM). Over 93.0% of patients showed no radiographic progression (mSASSS mean change from baseline < 2) at week 104. The overall TEAE rate was 165.2 E/100 PY, with low rates of major adverse cardiovascular and venous thromboembolic events (0.3 E/100 PY each).

Conclusions

Upadacitinib efficacy, including very low rates of radiographic progression, was demonstrated through 104 weeks in treatment-refractory patients with active AS. Treatment was well tolerated, with no newly identified safety signals.

Trial registration

NCT04169373.
Microsurgery and nerve regeneration: a technical note on intercostal nerves of the swine model
Authors: Giannakopoulos Theodorou Nikolaos , Botaitis Sotirios , Birbilis Theodosios
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The aim of this article is to present a novel large animal model for studying peripheral nerve regeneration. Large animals present a distinct superiority in mimicking clinical scenarios found in humans.

Methods

Swine’s intercostal nerves offer easy surgical access and an adequate number of peripheral nerves for conducting more than one experiment in a single animal. In addition, most of the nerve regeneration assessment methods can be applied in swine’s intercostal nerves.

Results

We describe the exact technique for using this animal model’s intercostal nerves, strong and weak points, different assessment tools and relevant complications. Review of the current literature is verifying the up-to-date lack of studies oriented toward the involvement of this array of peripheral nerves in nerve regeneration research.

Conclusion

We believe that the swine’s intercostal nerves model has all the qualities needed to be established in peripheral nerve research projects.
Response of various cultivars of Egyptian wheat (
Triticum aestivum
L.) to infection by
Stemphylium vesicarium
Authors: Ghebrial Eman W. , Farag Farag M. , Abou Zeid Mohamed A. , Atwa Nourhan A. , Eissa Sherif T. , Atwa Atwa A.
Published: November 2024

A new fungal disease affecting wheat in Egypt, known as Stemphylium leaf spot, caused by
Stemphylium vesicarium
Wallr (Simmons) is reported. From all symptomatic wheat leaves,
S. vesicarium
was the most frequently isolated fungus (71.9%). The isolated pathogen was identified based on morphological characteristics together with molecular diagnosis. The
Stemphylium
isolate AUMC 15115 in this study was clustered at the same branch as
Stemphylium mali
CBS 122640, ex-type material (Synonym = 
Stemphylium vesicarium
). At the Smart Agriculture Clinic Project, Sids Agricultural Research Station, Agricultural Research Centre, Beni Suef governorate, 12 cultivars of wheat were assessed in pot experiments for their resistance to Stemphylium leaf spot during the 2020 and 2021 growing seasons. Overall, distinct variations were observed in all examined cultivars in response to
S. vesicarium
infection. The Sakha 95 cultivar exhibited a minimal infection rate (disease incidence was 6.7, 3.3% and disease severity being, 0.7, 0.5%, respectively in the two growing seasons) and was classified as resistant. In contrast, Beni Suef 5 had the highest percent of infection (63.3, 66.7%), disease severity (38.5, 40.3%) and was classified as susceptible. In resistant cultivars, there was an increase in total phenol content, polyphenol oxidase (PPO), peroxidase (POD), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities. Conversely, there was a reduction in electrolyte leakage percentage and hydrogen peroxide (H
2
O
2
) accumulation. However, the number of protein bands in resistant wheat cultivars exhibited a more significant increase than susceptible ones, particularly in the Sakha 95, which displayed the highest number of proteins.
Breaking barriers in the career development of women in academic psychiatry
Authors: Pinto da Costa Mariana , Galderisi Silvana , Herrman Helen , Riecher-Rössler Anita , Wasserman Danuta
Published: November 2024

Academic psychiatry is essential for advancing mental health understanding and treatments. However, women encounter more obstacles hindering their progress in academia than men. This Editorial aims to highlight these obstacles and propose strategies to address them, advocating for a more supportive environment for women psychiatrists’ ongoing growth and development. The importance of supportive environments, fair access to opportunities and structural changes, including initiatives for mentorship, funding and flexible work arrangements, are crucial. Collaboration among governments, institutions and organisations is needed to enhance research infrastructure and promote gender equality. Encouraging and recognising women's contributions in research fosters inclusivity and innovation. Prioritising these efforts is vital for the existence, well-being and success of women in academic psychiatry.
Axillary Surgery for Patients With Residual Isolated Tumor Cells (ypN0i+) After Neoadjuvant Systemic Therapy for Early Breast Cancer
Authors: Agostinetto Elisa , Caballero Carmela , Ignatiadis Michail , Pop C. Florin
Published: November 2024

The Oncology Grand Rounds series is designed to place original reports published in the
Journal
into clinical context. A case presentation is followed by a description of diagnostic and management challenges, a review of the relevant literature, and a summary of the authors’ suggested management approaches. The goal of this series is to help readers better understand how to apply the results of key studies, including those published in
Journal of Clinical Oncology
, to patients seen in their own clinical practice
.
Ποιότητα, διασφάλιση ποιότητας και αξιολόγηση σχολικών μονάδων
Authors: Γκαρνάρα Ροδούλα-Σταυρούλα
Published: November 2024

Οι έννοιες της «ποιότητας των σχολικών μονάδων», της «διασφάλισης ποιότητας των σχολικών μονάδων» και της «αξιολόγησης των σχολικών μονάδων» κατέχουν περίοπτη θέση στις συζητήσεις της διεθνούς εκπαιδευτικής κοινότητας. Ειδικότερα, οι έννοιες της ποιότητας και της διασφάλισης ποιότητας, αν και προέρχονται από τον χώρο της οικονομίας και των επιχειρήσεων, φαίνεται τις τελευταίες δεκαετίες να συμβάλλουν σημαντικά και στον εκπαιδευτικό χώρο μέσω της διαμόρφωσης στρατηγικών και μεθοδολογιών για την ανάπτυξη των εκπαιδευτικών συστημάτων. Εντούτοις, στον ελλαδικό χώρο τα μονοπάτια προς την ποιότητα των σχολικών μονάδων και ιδιαίτερα προς τη διασφάλιση της ποιότητάς τους είναι μάλλον αχαρτογράφητα. Από την άλλη πλευρά, η έννοια της αξιολόγησης των σχολικών μονάδων είναι μία έννοια αρκετά οικεία στον εκπαιδευτικό κόσμο, η οποία ήταν πάντα στο επίκεντρο, ενώ με τα νομοθετήματα των τελευταίων χρόνων, βάσει των οποίων έχει ήδη τεθεί σε εφαρμογή η αυτοαξιολόγηση των σχολικών μονάδων, είναι πιο επίκαιρη από ποτέ. Σκοπός της παρούσας διατριβής είναι η συγκριτική μελέτη των απόψεων εκπαιδευτικών Πρωτοβάθμιας και Δευτεροβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης δημόσιων και ιδιωτικών σχολείων αναφορικά με την ποιότητα, τη διασφάλιση ποιότητας και την αξιολόγηση των σχολικών μονάδων, καθώς και η διερεύνηση της σύνδεσης των τριών πυλώνων και του πλέγματος σχέσεων που αναπτύσσεται αναμεταξύ τους. Για τις ανάγκες της έρευνας κατασκευάστηκε ερωτηματολόγιο που χορηγήθηκε δια ζώσης, αλλά και μέσω ηλεκτρονικού ταχυδρομείου. Δείγμα της έρευνας αποτέλεσαν 1095 εκπαιδευτικοί Πρωτοβάθμιας και Δευτεροβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης δημόσιων και ιδιωτικών σχολείων. Μέσα από τα αποτελέσματα της έρευνας διαπιστώθηκε σημαντική διαφοροποίηση των απόψεων των εκπαιδευτικών δημόσιων και ιδιωτικών σχολείων σε θέματα που αφορούσαν την ποιότητα, τη διασφάλιση ποιότητας και την αξιολόγηση των σχολικών μονάδων, ενώ στις περισσότερες των περιπτώσεων στατιστικά σημαντικές διαφορές εντοπίστηκαν και ανάμεσα στις απόψεις των εκπαιδευτικών Πρωτοβάθμιας και Δευτεροβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης. Ακόμη, μέσα από τη μελέτη αναδείχθηκαν οι διαφορές της θεωρίας από την πράξη και, πιο συγκεκριμένα, του βαθμού σπουδαιότητας που απέδωσαν οι εκπαιδευτικοί με τον βαθμό ανταπόκρισης των σχολικών τους μονάδων σε όλους τους στόχους ποιότητας, διασφάλισης ποιότητας και αξιολόγησης των σχολικών μονάδων που τέθηκαν με τις διαφορές να είναι στατιστικά σημαντικές σε όλες τις περιπτώσεις. Τέλος, μέσα από τη δημιουργία των δομικών μοντέλων διαπιστώθηκε η σύνδεση των τριών πυλώνων της διατριβής, ενώ, παράλληλα, προέκυψαν και κάποιες ενδιαφέρουσες προεκτάσεις, που χρήζουν περαιτέρω διερεύνησης.
Thermodynamics in a gravitational field
Authors: Σουρτζίνου Ειρήνη-Τριανταφυλλιά
Published: November 2024

Μια σημαντική πρόκληση στη θεωρητική φυσική είναι η κατανόηση της σχέσης μεταξύ της γενικής σχετικότητας και της θερμοδυναμικής. Ακόμα απουσιάζει μια θερμοδυναμική θεωρία που ενσωματώνει τη βαρύτητα, είναι συμβατή με την κοσμολογική μας ιστορία και περιλαμβάνει τη φυσική των μελανών οπών. Ένα σημαντικό βήμα προς αυτή την κατεύθυνση ήταν ο γενικευμένος δεύτερος νόμος (ΓΔΝ) της θερμοδυναμικής,σύμφωνα με τον οποίον, το άθροισμα της εντροπίας της ύλης και ενός πολλαπλάσιου του εμβαδού του συνόρου μιας μελανής οπής δεν ελαττώνεται στο χρόνο. Για να προστατεύσει αυτόν τον νόμο από προκλήσεις, ο Bekenstein πρότεινε ένα καθολικό όριο στο λόγο της εντροπίας προς την ενέργεια. Σε αυτή τη διατριβή, αναλάβαμε μια ανάλυση πρώτων αρχών ενός υποδειγματικού συστήματος στη μελέτη του ΓΔΝ στις μελανές οπές, ένα κβαντικό ιδανικό αέριο σε ένα μικρό κουτί που αιωρείται πάνω από τον ορίζοντα μιας μελανής οπής Schwarzschild. Αρχικά αναλύσαμε την απλούστερη περίπτωση ενός μη σχετικιστικού αερίου σε ένα βαρυτικό πεδίο, προκειμένου να κατανοήσουμε τις τροποποιήσεις που πρέπει να κάνουμε στη θερμοδυναμική περιγραφή, λόγω βαρύτητας. Στη συνέχεια, αναλύσαμε ένα συνεχώς επιταχυνόμενο κουτί με αέριο στον χωροχρόνο Rindler, πριν εστιάσουμε στο κύριό μας πρόβλημα. Στην ανάλυσή μας, περιγράψαμε τo αέριο μέσω ελεύθερων κβαντικών πεδίων, μποζονικών και φερμιονικών, με και χωρίς μάζα, και προσδιορίσαμε τις θερμοδυναμικές του ιδιότητες μέσω της μικροκανονικήςκατανομής. Δείξαμε ότι η φυσική εξαρτάται σε μεγάλο βαθμό από την απόσταση του κουτιού από τον ορίζοντα, την οποία θεωρήσαμε ως μια μακροσκοπική θερμοδυναμική μεταβλητή. Βρήκαμε ότι το αέριο τείνει να συμπεριφερθεί ως διδιάστατο καθώς πλησιάζουμε στον ορίζοντα και ότι η πίεση είναι εξαιρετικά ανισότροπη. Το πιο σημαντικό αποτέλεσμα είναι ότι απόδείξαμε την παραβίαση του όριου του Bekenstein σ΄ αυτό τοσύστημα, κάτι που σημαίνει ότι μια σοβαρή πρόκληση για τον ΓΔΝ παραμένει αναπάντητη. Επίσης, βρήκαμε ότι η διαφορά πίεσης μεταξύ του άνω και του κάτω τοιχώματος οδηγεί σε μια ενεργό άνωση που ελαφρύνει μερικώς το σύστημα. Τέλος δείξαμε ότι η προσέγγιση των κβαντικών πεδίων που διαδίδονται σε ένα σταθερό υπόβαθρο για την ύλη καταρρέει όταν το σύστημα φτάσει σε μικροσκοπικές αποστάσεις από τον ορίζοντα, οπότε πρέπει να ληφθούν υπόψη τα αποτελέσματα της βαρυτικής επανάδρασης.
Η ιδέα της ευθανασίας στην σύγχρονη βιοηθική
Authors: Πρωτοπαπαδάκης Ευάγγελος
Published: November 2024

Η αλματώδης ανάπτυξη της ιατρικής επιστήμης κατά τις τελευταίες δεκαετίες έλυσε πολλά χρονίζοντα προβλήματα και βελτίωσε σημαντικά την ποιότητα – αλλά και αύξησε το προσδόκιμο – της ζωής του ανθρώπου. Οι νέες, όμως, επαναστατικές δυνατότητες δημιούργησαν και πολλές περιπλοκές ηθικού χαρακτήρα. Η επιστήμη διαθέτει πολλά και υπέροχα όπλα ενάντια στον πόνο και την ασθένεια, αλλά δεν διαθέτει την απάντηση στα σημαντικότερα ερωτήματα: αν πρέπει να τα χρησιμοποιήσει, και πώς. Τα δυο αυτά ερωτήματα αναφύονται κατ’ εξοχήν όταν πρέπει να ληφθούν αποφάσεις περί του τέλους της ζωής. Σήμερα, η ζωή του ανθρώπου μπορεί πλέον να παρατείνεται πολύ πέραν των – άλλοτε θεωρούμενων ως – φυσικών της ορίων: πληθώρα θαυμαστών τεχνολογικών επιτευγμάτων υποστηρίζουν πλέον επί μακρόν την ζωή πασχόντων οι οποίοι, χωρίς αυτά, θα είχαν προ πολλού εκμετρήσει τον χρόνο τους. Το ζήτημα της ευθανασίας, κεντρικό στις συζητήσεις στον χώρο της βιοηθικής, είναι κατ’ εξοχήν ηθικής φύσεως, αφού στον πυρήνα του βρίσκονται τρία κεντρικά ηθικά ερωτήματα: 1. Εάν, και έως ποιου σημείου, νομιμοποιούμαστε να παρατείνουμε την ζωή του ασθενούς; 2. Εάν, και υπό ποιες προϋποθέσεις νομιμοποιούμαστε ηθικά – ή, υποχρεούμεθα – να τερματίζουμε την ζωή τους πάσχοντος κατά την οικεία αυτού επιθυμία; 3. Όταν αυτή η ηθική νομιμοποίηση μπορεί να τεκμηριωθεί κατά τρόπο ικανοποιητικό, ποια είναι τα πλέον ενδεδειγμένα μέσα ώστε να το πράξουμε; Σε αυτά τα ερωτήματα καλείται να παράσχει – ορισμένες, αλλά όχι όλες, και σε κάθε περίπτωση μη καταληκτικές – απαντήσεις η ανά χείρας Διδακτορική Διατριβή.
Can we quickly retrieve Seismic Source Spectrum characteristics after a large magnitude earthquake? Implementation of a methodology based on Coda waves
Authors: Grendas Ioannis , Theodoulidis Nikos , Hollender Fabrice , Hatzidimitriou Panagiotis
Published: November 2024

After a large magnitude earthquake event, the direct estimation of its Seismic Source Spectrum (SSS) is important to estimate the energy content of the seismic source in broad-band frequency range. This direct knowledge of the SSS, except for the fact that can directly provide information about the Moment Magnitude of the earthquake, constitutes also, in frequency domain, that information, which is required to the Fourier Amplitude Spectra (FAS) simulation of the real-input seismic motion, in several target sites close to the source for which no earthquake recordings exist. In this study, the computation of the SSS of an earthquake is based on a single-station analysis algorithm by applying the spectral factorization method on the coda wave part of a seismic record. An application of this algorithm is implemented here for the Mw = 6.1 Cephalonia Island earthquake of 26/01/2014. The corresponding SSS, computed for several stations away from the source, are compared with the average SSS retrieved by standard applied method. The comparison results strongly encourage application and development of this SSS computation approach.
Dietary patterns as predictors of adverse antidiabetics reactions - A cross-sectional study of polish diabetes sufferers
Authors: Skoczylas Kornelia , Babiarczyk Beata , Michalik Anna
Published: November 2024

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a multifaceted problem. There is a need to coordinate the diet with pharmacological interventions, because of the possible interaction between the two. The present study aimed to identify  the factors related to the dietary habits of people suffering with diabetes that may increase the  risk of adverse reactions to anti-diabetic medication.
Methods: Between 2019 and  2020, patients with DM (N=203), aged 18-65, were enrolled for analysis. A quantitative and cross-sectional survey was applied. The study employed a Dietary Habits and Nutrition Beliefs Questionnaire devised in Poland for people aged 15–65 years (KomPAN) and a self-designed questionnaire as research tools.
Results: The majority of the patients with DM studied confirmed the use of a low carbohydrate diet in relation to their disease (87.7%). The mean pHDI-10 score for the study group was 22.55±8.67 points and the mean nHDI-14 score was 15.00±9.88 points. The place of residence, education and general financial situation of the subjects had a statistically significant effect on the results (p<0.05). The majority of subjects reported regular use of anti-diabetic medication (77.8%). Of those treated with oral medication, 61.1% had experienced adverse effects and 49.3% had been  hospitalized as a result. Of those treated with insulin, 40.9% reported adverse effects.
Conclusions: Health professionals should be proactive in giving people with DM, particularly those who are less educated, financially disadvantaged, aged 41-55 and are working, adequate counseling about dietary recommendations from the very onset of their illness.
Allergy Modulation: Exploring the Role of Prebiotics, Probiotics, and Synbiotics in Enhancing Health Outcomes - A Literature Review
Authors: Karoń Łukasz Mikołaj , Zygmunt Anna , Karoń Karolina , Grabowski Wojciech , Pedrycz Daria , Pedrycz Emilia , Drapała Grzegorz
Published: November 2024

This literature review explores the role of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics in the prevention and management of allergic diseases, including eczema, asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies. The review delves into the mechanisms by which these dietary interventions modulate the gut microbiome, influence immune system responses, and enhance the epithelial barrier. While prebiotics promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and the production of short-chain fatty acids, probiotics introduce live microorganisms that restore balance in the gut ecosystem. Synbiotics combine both approaches to synergistically improve gut health. Despite the promising potential of these interventions, the evidence remains mixed, with their efficacy varying across different allergic conditions. This review underscores the need for further research to clarify the effectiveness of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics in allergy prevention and management, highlighting the complexities involved in translating these findings into clinical practice.
Impact of Fluoroquinolones on Tendon Health: A Comprehensive Overview for the General Population and Athletes
Authors: Kucharczyk Emilia , Kucharczyk Natalia , Pawłuszkiewicz Karolina
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Fluoroquinolones are a class of broad-spectrum antibiotics widely used to treat various bacterial infections. Despite their effectiveness, increasing evidence links fluoroquinolones to tendinopathy and tendon rupture, with cases occurring shortly after initiation or even months post-therapy. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the impact of fluoroquinolones on tendon health - highlighting the underlying pathomechanisms, clinical manifestations, and epidemiology of fluoroquinolone-associated tendinopathy.
Purpose of the work: The purpose of this study is to review the effects of fluoroquinolones on tendon health in the general population. Special attention is given to the athletes, who are particularly vulnerable to tendon injuries.
Materials and methods: A comprehensive analysis of research articles available on PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus was conducted using search terms related to: "fluoroquinolones," "tendinopathy," "tendon rupture," "athletes" and "connective tissue damage."
Results: Fluoroquinolones are linked to an increased risk of tendinopathy and tendon rupture, particularly among those with certain risk factors, including athletes. Understanding the mechanisms by which fluoroquinolones affect tendon tissue and recognizing early signs of tendon damage can help mitigate these risks. Prevention strategies, including cautious prescribing fluoroquinolones and targeted rehabilitation programmes, may reduce the adverse effects of fluoroquinolone usage, particularly in high-risk groups like athletes.
Preventing MRSA Infections in Sports: Effective Strategies and Approaches
Authors: Pawłuszkiewicz Karolina , Kucharczyk Natalia , Kucharczyk Emilia
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Infections caused by community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) are a growing concern, particularly among asymptomatic individuals. CA-MRSA can lead to various conditions such as skin infections, septic arthritis, pyomyositis, endocarditis, and pubic osteomyelitis, with athletes being especially vulnerable due to shared equipment, close contact, and skin trauma. Prolonged colonization of the anterior nares and persistence on shared surfaces contribute to its spread.
Purpose of work: This study aims to review MRSA prevalence in sports and provide effective strategies for prevention and management.The purpose of this paper is to evaluate MRSA prevalence in sports and provide effective strategies for prevention and management.
Materials and methods: A comprehensive analysis of research papers available on PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus was undertaken using the search terms encompassing the following keywords: Community- acquired MRSA / MRSA and Sport / MRSA and athletes / MRSA Prevention Strategies in Sports / MRSA Infection Risks in Athletes / MRSA Colonization and Sports Participation.
Results: A meta-analysis found that about 6% of asymptomatic athletes are colonized with MRSA, though rates vary by sport and country. Decolonization methods may reduce infection risk, but their effects are often temporary. This study examines MRSA colonization and infections in athletes, stressing the importance of preventive measures.
role of the ketogenic diet in the treatment and prevention of diseases: A literature review
Authors: Barański Dawid , Skwara Julia , Salińska Anna , Wasilewski Marcin , Węgrzyn Konstancja , Nowicki Maciej , Laskowski Gustaw , Góra Agnieszka , Węgrzyn Piotr , Dąbrowska Natalia
Published: November 2024

In recent years the ketogenic diet (KD) has become more and more popular. This diet is used not only to reduce weight but also there are an increasingly amount of new researches with multiple possitives effects in some diseases, such as prevention in cardiovascular conditions, diabetes mellitus, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, some types of cancers and psoriasis. This paper offers an overview of these various medical conditions in which ketogenic diet can be used. Furthermore we describe the mechanism and potential efficacy of the KD. The PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched.