bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pooled Long-Term Outcomes With Nivolumab Plus Ipilimumab or Nivolumab Alone in Patients With Advanced Melanoma
Authors: Long Georgina V. , Larkin James , Schadendorf Dirk , Grob Jean-Jacques , Lao Christopher D. , Márquez-Rodas Iván , Wagstaff John , Lebbé Céleste , Pigozzo Jacopo , Robert Caroline , Ascierto Paolo A. , Atkinson Victoria , Postow Michael A. , Atkins Michael B. , Sznol Mario , Callahan Margaret K. , Topalian Suzanne L. , Sosman Jeffrey A. , Kotapati Srividya , Thakkar Pratik K. , Ritchings Corey , Pe Benito Melanie , Re Sandra , Soleymani Samira , Hodi F. Stephen
Published: November 2024

PURPOSE

Nivolumab (NIVO) + ipilimumab (IPI) combination and NIVO monotherapy have demonstrated durable clinical benefit in patients with unresectable/metastatic melanoma. This analysis describes long-term overall survival (OS) with the combination or monotherapy pooled across all major company-sponsored trials, as well as clinical factors associated with survival, in patients with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment–naïve unresectable/metastatic melanoma.

METHODS

Data were pooled from six CheckMate studies in ICI treatment–naïve patients receiving NIVO + IPI (NIVO 1 mg/kg + IPI 3 mg/kg or NIVO 3 mg/kg + IPI 1 mg/kg) or NIVO monotherapy (3 mg/kg). OS was assessed for each treatment, as well as in select subgroups. Cox proportional multivariate analysis (MVA) and classification and regression tree (CART) analyses were performed within treatment arms.

RESULTS

Median follow-up for OS was 45.0 months for patients treated with NIVO + IPI (n = 839) and 35.8 months for patients treated with NIVO (n = 536). OS was longer with NIVO + IPI versus NIVO monotherapy (hazard ratio, 0.78 [95% CI, 0.67 to 0.91]), with 6-year OS rates of 52% versus 41%, respectively. Consistent benefit was observed in
BRAF
-mutant and
BRAF
-wild-type patients and those with normal and elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Numerical difference in OS was also observed across PD-L1 expression levels, although more pronounced with no/low PD-L1 expression. Clinical factors associated with decreased survival in both the MVA and CART analyses were LDH > upper limit of normal with either treatment, age ≥65 years with NIVO + IPI, and the presence of liver metastases with NIVO monotherapy.

CONCLUSION

In this large, pooled nonrandomized retrospective analysis, we observed that NIVO + IPI provides longer OS than NIVO in patients with ICI treatment–naïve advanced melanoma and identifies clinical factors that appear to be associated with survival for each treatment, which may assist with treatment decision making.
Development and Validation of a Predictive Model for Maternal Cardiovascular Morbidity Events in Patients With Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy
Authors: Meng Marie-Louise , Li Yuqi , Fuller Matthew , Lanners Quinn , Habib Ashraf S. , Federspiel Jerome J. , Quist-Nelson Johanna , Shah Svati H. , Pencina Michael , Boggess Kim , Krishnamoorthy Vijay , Engelhard Matthew
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are a major contributor to maternal morbidity, mortality, and accelerated cardiovascular (CV) disease. Comorbid conditions are likely important predictors of CV risk in pregnant people. Currently, there is no way to predict which people with HDP are at risk of acute CV complications. We developed and validated a predictive model for all CV events and for heart failure, renal failure, and cerebrovascular events specifically after HDP.

METHODS:

Models were created using the Premier Healthcare Database. The inclusion criteria for the model dataset were delivery with an HDP with discharge from October 1, 2015 to December 31, 2020. Machine learning methods were used to derive predictive models of CV events occurring during delivery hospitalization (Index Model) or during readmission (Readmission Model) using a training set (60%) to estimate model parameters, a validation set (20%) to tune model hyperparameters and select a final model, and a test set (20%) to evaluate final model performance.

RESULTS:

The total model cohort consisted of 553,658 deliveries with an HDP. A CV event occurred in 6501 (1.2%) of the delivery hospitalizations. Multilabel neural networks were selected for the Index Model and Readmission Model due to favorable performance compared to alternatives. This approach is designed for prediction of multiple events that share risk factors and may cooccur. The Index Model predicted all CV events with area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) 0.878 and average precision (AP) 0.239 (cerebrovascular events: AUROC 0.941, heart failure: AUROC 0.898, and renal failure: AUROC 0.885). With a positivity threshold set to achieve ≥90% sensitivity, model specificity was 65.0%, 83.5%, 68.6%, and 65.6% for predicting all CV events, cerebrovascular events, heart failure, and renal failure, respectively. CV events within 1 year of delivery occurred in 3018 (0.6%) individuals. The Readmission Model predicted all CV events with AUROC 0.717 and AP 0.022 (renal failure: AUROC 0.748, heart failure: AUROC 0.734, and cerebrovascular events AUROC 0.698). Feature importance analysis indicated that the presence of chronic renal disease, cardiac disease, pulmonary hypertension, and preeclampsia with severe features had the greatest effect on the prediction of CV events.

CONCLUSIONS:

Among individuals with HDP, our multilabel neural network model predicted CV events at delivery admission with good classification and events within 1 year of delivery with fair classification.
Accessible Ungrading
Authors: Ubbesen Molly E. , Bruenger Aaron , Lemer Bronson
Published: November 2024

At the University of Minnesota, Rochester, a small health sciences school, writing faculty piloted their own versions of ungrading catered to the accessibility needs of students. Ubbesen experimented with what she calls “credit-based assessment” where students receive a zero through four score on all assignments. Bruenger experimented with assigning credit or no credit to all assignments. And Lemer experimented with not assigning grades at all until the final required one. This article describes these ungrading schemes, analyzes student responses to them, and promotes ungrading as an accessible practice for teachers and learners.
The Complex Lives of Bees
Authors: Gabay Esther M. , Smith Cheryl Hogue
Published: November 2024

This article discusses and situates various grading practices — such as labor-based grading and specification grading — and their applications within a community college setting. Through two community college instructor voices with two disparate and continuing grading journeys, this article reflects on how these grading practices affect community college students in unforeseen and unjust ways, and ultimately argues that instructors should offer grading choices in order to serve the complex lives and needs of community college students.
Just One More Thing?
Authors: Gabor Catherine
Published: November 2024

This study addresses the paucity of literature on the impact of ungrading — contract grading, specifically — on international students at American colleges. Over the course of four semesters, 307 international and domestic students were surveyed (anonymously) about their perceptions of grading contracts in their writing (and writing-heavy) classes. Specifically, the survey was designed to find out if grading contracts serve as “just another thing” to navigate as international students transition into the Western educational setting and, furthermore, to find out if grading contracts inadvertently do more harm than good. Ultimately, international students perceive more overall benefits than drawbacks of ungrading. However, the data show that international students do find contract grading confusing — especially at first. This article analyzes the sources of confusion along with mitigating topics named by the survey participants, such as fairness, student agency, and stress reduction. The data also show that ungrading practices can serve as a transitional tool to ease international students into American education; a portion of students identify the grading contract as a means of facilitating the transition into American education, rather than as a barrier to it.
Decreased DNA density is a better indicator of a nuclear bleb than lamin B loss
Authors: Bunner Samantha , Prince Kelsey , Pujadas Liwag Emily M. , Eskndir Nebiyat , Srikrishna Karan , Amonu McCarthy Antonia , Kuklinski Anna , Jackson Olivia , Pellegrino Pedro , Jagtap Shrushti , Eweka Imuetiyan , Lawlor Colman , Eastin Emma , Yas Griffin , Aiello Julianna , LaPointe Nathan , Schramm von Blucher Isabelle , Hardy Jillian , Chen Jason , Figueroa Schuyler , Backman Vadim , Janssen Anne , Packard Mary , Dorfman Katherine , Almassalha Luay , Bahiru Michael Seifu , Stephens Andrew D.
Published: November 2024

Nuclear blebs are herniations of the nucleus that occur in diseased nuclei and cause nuclear rupture leading to cellular dysfunction. Chromatin and lamins are two of the major structural components of the nucleus that maintain its shape and function, but their relative roles in nuclear blebbing remain elusive. To determine the composition of nuclear blebs, we compared the immunofluorescence intensity of DNA and lamin B in the main nucleus body to that in the nuclear bleb across cell types and perturbations. DNA density in the nuclear bleb was consistently decreased to about half that of the nuclear body whereas lamin B levels in the nuclear bleb varied widely. Partial wave spectroscopic (PWS) microscopy recapitulated the significantly decreased likelihood of high-density domains in the nuclear bleb versus body, and that it was independent of lamin B level. Time-lapse imaging into immunofluorescence revealed that decreased DNA density marked all nuclear blebs whereas decreased lamin B1 levels only occurred in blebs that had recently ruptured. Thus, decreased DNA density is a better marker of a nuclear bleb than lamin B level.
Developmental Coordination Disorder and Early Childhood Trajectories of Physical Activity
Authors: King-Dowling Sara , Veldhuizen Scott , Wellman-Earl Sarah , Price David , Timmons Brian W. , Kwan Matthew Y. W. , Cairney John
Published: November 2024

Purpose: Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by motor impairments and subsequent physical activity (PA) deficits in middle childhood. It is not well understood when this gap in PA emerges. The purpose of the current study was to examine the longitudinal trajectories of device-assessed PA in a large cohort of children with and without DCD from age 4 to 8.

Methods: Children (n = 535, 4- to 5-years old) completed 4 annual assessments as part of a prospective cohort study. Children were classified into 3 groups based on their average performance on the Movement Assessment Battery for Children- 2nd Edition: probable DCD (pDCD) <6th percentile (n = 72); at-risk for DCD (DCDr) between the 6 to 16th percentile (n = 127), and typically developing (TD) >16th percentile (n = 336). Moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) and average PA volume (vector counts per minute) were assessed using ActiGraph accelerometers. A series of linear mixed effects models were used to examine longitudinal PA trajectories between groups.

Results: Children in both the pDCD and DCDr groups engaged in significantly less MVPA compared to the TD group, whereas the deficit in PA volume was only evident in the DCD group. The rate of change did not differ by group indicating that this deficit is relatively consistent across the early childhood period.

Conclusions: Young children with DCD are in a MVPA deficit that persists across early childhood. Early interventions targeting motor skills and PA may help to reduce this gap and promote positive trajectories of health among children with motor difficulties.
Effect of Footwear Longitudinal Bending Stiffness on Energy Cost, Biomechanics, and Fatigue During a Treadmill Half-Marathon
Authors: Perrin Titouan P. , Gerey Romane , Morio Cédric Y.M. , Feasson Léonard , Kerhervé Hugo A. , Rossi Jeremy , Millet Guillaume Y.
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Carbon plates have been used to increase running shoes’ longitudinal bending stiffness (LBS), but their effect during a long duration run remains unknown. Our study aimed to identify the effect of LBS on energy cost of running (Cr), biomechanics, and fatigue during a half-marathon.

Methods: Thirteen well-trained male runners (half-marathon time < 1 h40) performed two half-marathons at 95% of the running speed associated with their second ventilatory threshold on two separate visits, with either high-LBS shoes (HLBS, with carbon-plates) or standard-LBS (SLBS) shoes. Before and after the half-marathon, Cr at 12 km/h with both shoes (two 6-min bouts: Cr12) and ankle plantarflexors (PF) force were measured. During the half-marathon, running kinematics, shoe perceived comfort, and Cr were assessed.

Results: During Cr12 measurements before and after the half-marathon, HLBS was 1.0 ± 2.1% more economical than SLBS (p < 0.001). During the half-marathon, Cr increased with running duration (p = 0.048) but there was no distance × condition effect. HLBS increased contact time (+3%, p = 0.01), decreased metatarsophalangeal joint dorsiflexion (-9%, p = 0.01), and was perceived less comfortable than SLBS, independently from running duration. At the end of the half-marathon, HLBS shoes led to higher PF force loss (-20.0 ± 9.8% vs -13.3 ± 11.0%, p = 0.048).

Conclusions: Adding curved carbon plates in the running shoes slightly improved Cr during short running bouts at low intensity but not during a half-marathon. This discrepancy may be explained by day-to-day Cr variability and variation in shoe comfort. PF fatigue was higher with HLBS shoes but the accentuated fatigue did not further impact the biomechanical perturbations induced by the plates. Our results suggest that carbon plates alone do not provide a significant advantage for half-marathon performance.
Training Effects of Traditional versus Cluster Set Configuration with and without Blood Flow Restriction
Authors: Cornejo-Daza Pedro Jesús , Sánchez-Valdepeñas Juan , Rodiles-Guerrero Luis , Boullosa Daniel , León-Prados Juan A. , Wernbom Mathias , Pareja-Blanco Fernando
Published: November 2024

Purpose: This study compared the effects of four different resistance training (RT) programs that differed in the set configuration (cluster vs. traditional) and the blood flow condition [free-flow (FF) vs. blood flow restriction (BFR)] on strength, neuromuscular and hypertrophic adaptations.

Methods: Forty-two resistance-trained males were randomly assigned into four protocols that differed in the set configuration (TRA: without rest between repetitions vs. CLU: 30 s rest every 2 repetitions) and in the blood flow condition [FF vs. BFR (50% of arterial occlusion pressure)]. Subjects followed an 8-week RT program, twice per week, with similar intensity (55%–65% 1RM), sets (3), repetitions per set (10-6), and resting time (2 minutes) in the full-squat (SQ) exercise. Before and after the RT program, they were evaluated for: 1) muscle size of the vastus lateralis; 2) vertical jump; 3) maximal isometric contraction; 4) progressive loading test; and 5) fatigue test.

Results: BFR-TRA and FF-CLU induced greater increases in 1RM, and velocity against submaximal loads than FF-TRA and BFR-CLU (BFR × time and CLU × time interactions, p = 0.02). The TRA protocols showed greater increases in maximal isometric force than CLU (CLU × time interaction, p = 0.03). BFR did not enhance jump performance unlike the FF protocols (p < 0.01). The TRA protocols induced greater hypertrophy in the distal region of the vastus lateralis than CLU protocols (CLU × time interaction, p = 0.04), with BFR-TRA producing the greatest gains in all vastus lateralis sections.

Conclusions: The different combinations of set configurations and blood flow conditions resulted in highly specific adaptations that illustrate the potential of adaptation for each protocol. The divergent underlying mechanisms of CLU and BFR methodologies may offset each other when combined.
The Problem of Good Conduct among Financial Advisers
Authors: Egan Mark , Matvos Gregor , Seru Amit
Published: November 2024

Households in the United States often rely on financial advisers for investment and savings decisions, yet there is a widespread perception that many advisers are dishonest. This distrust is not unwarranted: approximately one in fifteen advisers has a history of serious misconduct, with this rate rising to one in six in certain regions and firms. We explore the economic foundations of the financial advisory industry and demonstrate how heterogeneity in household financial sophistication and conflicts of interest allow poor financial advice to persist. Using data on the universe of financial advisers and the Survey of Consumer Finances, we document who uses financial advisers and the prevalence of misconduct in the industry. Our findings suggest that a lack of financial sophistication is a key friction, making enhanced disclosure a potentially effective policy response. Supporting this, we show through a difference-in-differences approach that “naming and shaming” firms with high misconduct rates was associated with a 10 percent reduction in misconduct.
Πολιτική τέχνη στην ψηφιακή εποχή
Authors: Αλεξάνδρου Βασίλειος
Published: November 2024

Η παρούσα διατριβή διερευνά τους τρόπους με τους οποίους η τέχνη μπορεί να αναδειχθεί σε πολιτική τέχνη στην εποχή μας που χαρακτηρίζεται από την άκρατη ψηφιακότητα. Η μεθοδολογία που εφαρμόστηκε υπήρξε η καλλιτεχνική παραγωγή ως έρευνα (Practice-based research), όπου η ανατροφοδότηση οδηγεί στη συνέχεια της καλλιτεχνικής παραγωγής. Προαπαιτούμενη στην καλλιτεχνική παραγωγή στάθηκε η ενσώματη παρουσία των θεατών, ενώ κύριο ρόλο διαδραμάτισαν η έννοια της οικειοποίησης εικόνων, αντικειμένων και ιδεών για τις ανάγκες των έργων, όπως και η επιλογή χρήσης υλικών χαμηλού κόστους και όχι προϊόντων της τεχνολογίας αιχμής ̶̶ επιλογή πολιτική. Καθοριστικός παράγοντας για την καλλιτεχνική παραγωγή που προέκυψε αποτέλεσε η πανδημία του Covid-19 και ο τρόπος διαχείρισής της μέσα από τη μετάβαση σε μια καθολική ψηφιακότητα. Η παρουσίαση των έργων ξεκινά με έργα που προετοίμασαν την παρούσα διατριβή όπως το Ακατάλληλο μάθημα ̶ μια βιωματική δράση που επιχείρησε έρευνα με τυπικούς αλλά και ανορθόδοξους τρόπους ̶ και τη Βραχεία Μνήμη ̶ μια ενιαία ουσιαστικά εγκατάσταση αποτελούνταν από άλλες μικρότερες, διαδραστικές και μη. Στη συνέχεια παρουσιάζονται έργα που πραγματοποιήθηκαν κατά τους πρώτους μήνες της πανδημίας όπως το Social.gr και το Ενός χρόνου ζωή, που αποτέλεσαν αφετηρία για μια σειρά από έργα. Κεντρικό ρόλο διατηρεί η εγκατάσταση Safer/Suffer, που προέκυψε την περίοδο του καθολικού εγκλεισμού από τον Ιανουάριο έως τον Απρίλιο του 2021. Άλλα έργα περιλαμβάνουν το Fame Virus, που σχολιάζει επίσης την πανδημία, το Safe Pace/Περπατώντας με ασφάλεια, με σαφείς υπαινιγμούς στην υποκρισία εθνικών συμβόλων που παραπέμπουν σε εθνική ρώμη την ώρα που οι πολίτες ασθενούν, το Επανάσταση, με σαφείς υποδηλώσεις σε έννοιες όπως επανάσταση, αγορά/εμπορία γύρω από το sex, σωματική και νοητική αναπηρία, αντικείμενα υποβοήθησης κίνησης σε μία ακινητοποιημένη κοινωνία, το Αραιώνοντας το κοπάδι, ̶ με θεωρητικές αναφορές στις δομές και στη λειτουργία της πειθαρχικής εξουσίας, της βιοπολιτικής αλλά και της μετεξέλιξης αυτής της σε ψυχοπολιτική ̶ , τα Loaded και Overloaded, που σχολιάζουν την υπερεργασία, την υπερπληροφόρηση και η εκμετάλλευση των Big Data, το Πόσο μακριά φτάνει το χέρι σου, που προέκυψε με αφορμή την υπόθεση της λεγόμενης σταφιδικής κρίσης του 19ου αιώνα, το Happiness Relay, πρότζεκτ που πραγματοποιήθηκε σε συνεργασία με τον Άγγελο Φλώρο για την έννοια της πλασματικής ευτυχίας, το Ρεπορτάζ, που θέτει ερωτήματα σχετικά με τον ρόλο της δημοσιογραφίας και του ρεπορτάζ, το Clap me hard, όπου θίγονται τα εθνικιστικά κατάλοιπα της κοινωνίας, όπως οι εθνικές γιορτές και οι παρελάσεις που αποσκοπούν στην δημιουργία φανατικών εθνικών συνειδήσεων ̶ και τέλος το Iconστάσι ̶ που ανακινεί στη σκέψη αναλογίες ανάμεσα στην ψηφιακή τεχνολογία και τη θρησκεία. Τα συμπεράσματά βασίστηκαν σε στοιχεία που αφορούν την υποδοχή των έργων από το κοινό αλλά και στην ανατροφοδότηση που προσέδωσαν τόσο το ίδιο το κοινό όσο και η αλληλεπίδρασή με αυτό κατά τη διάρκεια της παρουσίασης των έργων.
Μεθοδολογίες σύνθεσης βιοδραστικών ενώσεων και μελέτη της αντικαρκινικής δράσης τους και της ανασταλτικής τους δράσης έναντι της κύριας πρωτεάσης του SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Θεοδωροπούλου Μαρία
Published: November 2024

Στα πλαίσια της παρούσας διδακτορικής διατριβής αρχικά, μελετήθηκε ένα φωτοκαταλυτικό πρωτόκολλο αντίδρασης N,N-διμεθυλοανιλινών και N-υποκατεστημένων μαλεϊμιδίων. Συγκεκριμένα, η εν λόγω αντίδραση πραγματοποιήθηκε χωρίς τη χρήση συμπλόκων μετάλλων, αλλά με χρήση της βενζαλδεΰδης ως φωτοεκκινητή και με απλούς οικιακούς λαμπτήρες ως πηγή ακτινοβόλησης. Οι τετραϋδρο-πυρρολο[3,2-c]κινολίνες που προκύπτουν από την αντίδραση αυτή θα μπορούσαν να αποτελέσουν πρόδρομα μόρια ενώσεων με φαρμακολογικό ενδιαφέρον. Οι αποακετυλάσες των ιστονών (HDACs) είναι ένζυμα που έχουν τη δυνατότητα να αποακετυλιώνουν κατάλοιπα λυσίνης αναστέλλοντας την κυτταρική μεταγραφή. Ωστόσο, μη φυσιολογική δραστηριότητά τους έχει συσχετιστεί με διάφορες παθολογικές καταστάσεις. Κυριότερα, εξέχων είναι ο ρόλος τους στην ανάπτυξη και την εξέλιξη διαφόρων μορφών καρκίνου. Στην παρούσα διατριβή πραγματοποιήθηκε η σύνθεση ενώσεων με πιθανή αντικαρκινική δράση. Αρχικά, συντέθηκαν κάποια βενζοθειαζόλυλο παράγωγα. Συντέθηκαν, ακόμα, ένα υδροξαμικό οξύ, καθώς και μια σειρά N-(2-αμινοφαινυλο)-βενζαμιδίων. Στη συνέχεια, πραγματοποιήθηκε η μελέτη της ικανότητας των ενώσεων αυτών να αναστέλλουν τον πολλαπλασιασμό καρκινικών κυττάρων. Συγκεκριμένα, στη μελέτη αυτή χρησιμοποιήθηκαν τρεις καρκινικές κυτταρικές σειρές (A549, SF268 και Caco-2). Στα τέλη του 2019 εμφανίστηκε μία νέα λοιμώδης νόσος του αναπνευστικού, η νόσος του κορονοϊού 2019 (coronavirus disease 2019, COVID-19), που προκαλείται από τον κορονοϊό-2 υπεύθυνο για το σοβαρό οξύ αναπνευστικό σύνδρομο (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2, SARS-CoV-2). Η εμφάνιση του SARS-CoV-2 δημιούργησε την ανάγκη για την ανεύρεση αποτελεσματικών θεραπειών έναντι της νόσου COVID-19. Στα πλαίσια αυτής της διδακτορικής διατριβής συντέθηκαν αναστολείς της κύριας πρωτεάσης (Mpro) του ιού. Συγκεκριμένα, αρχικά, συντέθηκε μια σειρά 2-οξοαμιδίων για τη διενέργεια μιας μελέτης συσχέτισης δομής-δραστικότητάς τους έναντι της Mpro. Τέλος σχεδιάστηκε και πραγματοποιήθηκε η σύνθεση ενός νιτροαλκενίου, καθώς και ορισμένων θειαζόλυλο κετονών, αναστολέων της Mpro.
Assessment of early neonatal practices to prevent hypothermia ; A comparative study
Authors: GM Smrithi , Renganathan Gayathri , Motappa Rohith , Joseph Nitin , SR Ravikiran
Published: November 2024

Background Globally, neonatal deaths are significantly attributed to hypothermia. This is mostly because of its co-morbidity with asphyxia, premature birth and severe neonatal infections. Worldwide, neonatal hypothermia case fatality rates (CFRs) range from 8.5% to 52%. This study aimed to assess how well a video-based training intervention on mothers’ knowledge and practices in preventing neonatal hypothermia worked. Methods The knowledge and practices of two groups of primi-para mothers—one control group and one intervention group—were compared in order to achieve this. A total of 124 primipara mothers took part in the research. Using a video based tool, the intervention group was educated about preventing hypothermia in newborns. Both control and intervention group mothers were interviewed to compare the knowledge and practices. Results Sixty-one of the sixty-two mothers in the control group were unsure of which body area to cover in order to preserve the baby’s body heat. Following the intervention, 61 out of 62 mothers in the group recognised which body part to cover to protect the baby’s body heat. In the post-intervention group, 98.4% of moms wore a cap over their baby’s head, compared to just 35.5% in the control group. Conclusion The results of this study demonstrate the significant improvement in mothers’ knowledge and actions about the prevention of neonatal hypothermia resulting from the use of a video-based training tool.
Design and architecture of software systems
Authors: Gagarina Larisa , Fedorov Petr
Published: November 2024

The tutorial examines the primary tasks that arise when developing large software projects involving hundreds of developers. The complexity of software is its essential and non—accidental property. The development technology is influenced by various factors, including design problems, the impact of economics, the impact of politics, and lack of imagination. Reducing the risks of reducing the success or even failure of large-scale developments is possible by using an architectural approach to software design based on defining global constraints imposed on system design, such as the choice of programming paradigm, architectural styles, and development standards. The concise style of presentation is accompanied by understandable explanations and numerous examples necessary for deep assimilation of the material.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For students studying in the fields of training 09.03.04 "Software Engineering", 09.04.04 "Software Engineering", as well as for researchers, teachers of educational institutions of higher education, students of institutes of advanced training.
The book can be used for self-education.
Tractors and electronically controlled vehicles
Authors: Bogatyrev Aleksandr , Schukina Varvara
Published: November 2024

In the last two decades, electronic-based automatic control systems (ACS) have been widely used in automotive engineering. Despite the fact that the material part has remained virtually unchanged, electronics has a significant impact on the design. For the first time, these two directions are combined in the textbook.
In accordance with the curriculum, the methodology and content of practical classes on the study of structures and control systems in modern tractors and automobiles are presented, the basic materials for obtaining the necessary knowledge and skills, and later skills in the operation of tractors and agricultural vehicles are presented.
The requirements for machine units and systems are considered, recommendations on practical issues on driving, machine management and maintenance and repair are given.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of secondary vocational education of the latest generation.
It is intended for students of secondary specialized educational institutions, bachelors and masters in the fields of "Agroengineering", "Construction and operation of transport and transport-technological machines and complexes".
Technology and equipment of sawmill production
Authors: Fokin Sergey , Shport'ko Oksana
Published: November 2024

The textbook highlights the issues of determining the dimensional and qualitative characteristics of sawn raw materials, the output of sawmill production and methods of cutting raw materials. The features of the organization of technological processes in the warehouse of sawn raw materials and used lifting and transport equipment are described. The equipment and technologies for the production of wood products in sawmills and lumber warehouses are considered.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
It is intended for bachelors in the field of training 03/35/02 "Technology of logging and wood processing industries", as well as for advanced training courses for specialists in the field of wood processing technology.
Historiography of universal history
Authors: Krelenko Nataliya
Published: November 2024

The textbook focuses on the long and complex process of the evolution of historical knowledge. In particular, it examines how knowledge about the past turned into historical science, how the fate of history developed in the 20th century, and also provides information about the life and work of foreign and domestic historians who lived at different times, but united by the study of universal history. Knowing who, when and why turned to the study of the past, it is easier to understand what role history played in the life of society, how the accumulated information about the days of the past turned into a science obeying its own laws, looking for ways to comprehend the past.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
It is addressed to students studying the history of historical science, history teachers, schoolchildren who dream of becoming historians, and, of course, to all inquisitive readers who, regardless of age and profession, are interested in history.
Rady uczelni: regulacje i dobre praktyki
Authors: Woźnicki Jerzy
Published: November 2024

The Conference of Rectors of Polish Academic Schools (KRASP) was established on 7 June 1997 by rectors representing Polish universities authorised to award doctoral degrees in at least one discipline. KRASP is a representative institution of the higher education and science community within the meaning of the Law on Higher Education and Science. Rectors associated in KRASP may operate within the framework of conferences of rectors of particular types of higher education institutions, as set out in the Statute. Apart from public universities, KRASP members include academic non-public universities, whereas non-academic (vocational) universities authorised to conduct master's degree studies may apply for the status of an associated university. Conferences associating vocational universities may obtain the status of an associated conference. Currently, KRASP consists of 108 academic universities represented by rectors, including 11 non-public universities. In addition, nine universities have the status of associated universities. The Conference stands out with its programmatic achievements, which are related to the development of higher education, including the strategy from 2009, the Act of 2005, the 2015 programme and monographs on the Act of 2018, including the presented book.  The Polish Rectors Foundation (FRP) was established on 7 June 2001 by 80 rectors of KRASP member universities. The founders of the Foundation include the rectors of the most renowned Polish universities. Among them are the rectors of member non-public universities. The Foundation began operating on 1 September 2002. The main objective of FRP, established as a non-governmental organisation following a civic initiative by the rectors, is to work towards the development of education, science and culture in Poland, with particular emphasis on higher education, including the support of the scientific, educational and cultural policy of the state. Since 2003, it has been cooperating with the Institute of Knowledge Society (ISW) with the status of a foundation, founded together with the Conference of Non-Public Universities. Both foundations, being public benefit organisations, established together the FRP-ISW think-tank, which has obtained the status of a globally recognised and recognisable centre for research on higher education and science.
Muzyka wobec rewolucji druku. Przemiany w kulturze muzycznej XVI wieku
Authors: Gancarczyk Paweł
Published: November 2024

Książka jest próbą całościowego spojrzenia na znaczenie wynalazku druku dla kultury muzycznej XVI wieku. Po zarysowaniu historii wczesnego drukarstwa muzycznego, jego podstaw technologicznych, finansowych i społecznych autor charakteryzuje kształtujący się wówczas rynek wydawnictw nutowych. Wskazuje na zależność zawartości i zewnętrznej postaci druków od warunków ekonomicznych, omawia przejawy rywalizacji między oficynami oraz przedstawia krąg protektorów edycji muzycznych. Typografia przyczyniła się do wzrostu alfabetyzacji muzycznej, umożliwiła unifikację europejskiego repertuaru, pogłębiając zarazem różnice między poszczególnymi gatunkami i stylami muzycznymi. Zapewniła długie trwanie niektórych typów twórczości, co nie wykluczało promowania w pierwszym rzędzie dzieł najnowszych i reagowania na bieżące wydarzenia religijne czy polityczne. Nowe medium wpłynęło nie tylko na obieg i funkcjonowanie repertuaru, ale także na świadomość twórców: ich poczucie autorstwa i indywidualności. Autor stawia tezę, że dzięki rewolucji druku poszerzył się społeczny i estetyczny horyzont kultury muzycznej, powstały nowe typy twórczości oraz zwiększył się krąg odbiorców zapisywanej muzyki. Proponuje powiązanie tych zjawisk z narodzinami nowożytności muzycznej, odnajdując niekiedy kontynuację zmian zapoczątkowanych w XVI wieku w kulturze współczesnej.
Identificación de relaciones por proximidad: el caso de la industria de calzado y diseño en Guadalajara de 1999 a 2020
Authors: Luna Plascencia Noé Rene , Lozano Uvario Katia Magdalena
Published: November 2024

Desde la década de los noventa del siglo xx, la industria del calzado se ha visto afectada por los procesos de apertura económica asociados al Tratado de Libre Comercio de América del Norte (tlcan), y después por las crisis económicas (1997, 2008 y por la pandemia del Covid-19); en todos los casos se ha podido reponer, dado su arraigo, considerando tanto su localización en el municipio de Guadalajara desde tiempos de la Colonia como el saber-hacer que permanece en el mercado laboral, así como las redes productivas en su cadena de valor. En esta última se identifican aglomeraciones tanto de empresas de calzado como de diseño, así como sus flujos, que pueden transmitirse como medios de comunicaciones más densos, rápidos y baratos. Los beneficios pueden ser las economías externas a escala (Vázquez, 2005), mayor competitividad (Porter, 1998) y, por lo tanto, detener la decadencia de la industria del calzado.
Is Pessimism Provably Efficient for Offline Reinforcement Learning?
Authors: Jin Ying , Yang Zhuoran , Wang Zhaoran
Published: November 2024

We study offline reinforcement learning (RL), which aims to learn an optimal policy based on a data set collected a priori. Because of the lack of further interactions with the environment, offline RL suffers from the insufficient coverage of the data set, which eludes most existing theoretical analysis. In this paper, we propose a pessimistic variant of the value iteration algorithm (PEVI), which incorporates an uncertainty quantifier as the penalty function. Such a penalty function simply flips the sign of the bonus function for promoting exploration in online RL, which makes it easily implementable and compatible with general function approximators. Without assuming the sufficient coverage of the data set (e.g., finite concentratability coefficients or uniformly lower-bounded densities of visitation measures), we establish a data-dependent upper bound on the suboptimality of PEVI for general Markov decision processes (MDPs). When specialized to linear MDPs, it matches the information-theoretic lower bound up to multiplicative factors of the dimension and horizon. In other words, pessimism is not only provably efficient but also, minimax optimal. In particular, given the data set, the learned policy serves as the “best effort” among all policies as no other policies can do better. Our theoretical analysis identifies the critical role of pessimism in eliminating a notion of spurious correlation, which arises from the “irrelevant” trajectories that are less covered by the data set and not informative for the optimal policy.

Funding: Z. Yang acknowledges the Simons Institute (Theory of Reinforcement Learning). Z. Wang acknowledges the National Science Foundation [Awards 2048075, 2008827, 2015568, and 1934931], the Simons Institute (Theory of Reinforcement Learning), Amazon, J. P. Morgan, and Two bSigma.
The admission and integration model: first‑hand experiences of staff admitted to a mental health ward
Authors: Turnbull Lorraine Bobbie , Green Eleanor
Published: November 2024

Background/Aims

Over a period of 6 months, four staff members were admitted on separate occasions to a male acute mental health ward for 1 day. The purpose was for participants to gain personal insight into the experiences of patients on the ward. This study aimed to explore the experiences of staff admitted onto the ward and provide a conceptual model to describe the admission process.

Methods

Feedback was obtained from the study participants via pre- and post-admission questionnaires and a focus group discussion. These qualitative data were thematically analysed to generate the steps in the admission and integration model.

Results

Admission to the mental health ward was a useful learning experience for staff members in terms of improving empathy for their patients. A model of ward admission and integration based on these experiences was also developed. The model adhered to Maslow's hierarchy of need, where participants had to re-establish deficiency needs following admission onto the ward.

Conclusions

The study findings have been shared with other hospital staff, and will be used by a new working group to implement improvements in patient care.
Student nurses’ experiences of restraint − a qualitative study
Authors: Rooney Niamh , Lotto Robyn
Published: November 2024

Background/Aims

Restraint is a complex issue that is associated with multiple legal and ethical challenges. National scandals have highlighted a lack of adequate training among healthcare staff in restraint. While education should start with nurses in training, evidence suggests that the experiences of student nurses in relation to restraint has not been addressed. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of student nurses when encountering restraint.

Methods

A qualitative methodology was used to investigate student nurse experiences of restraint. Seven semi-structured interviews were undertaken with student nurses in their second (n=3) and third year (n=4) of an undergraduate nursing degree, with a specialism in mental health nursing. Data were analysed using a thematic analysis approach.

Results

Three overarching themes were identified from the data: a ‘clinical–theory gap’, referring to a gap in students’ theoretical learning and clinical placements; ‘learning from each other’, where students felt a need for increased shared learning surrounding restraint; ‘wellbeing’, highlighting a lack of sufficient supportive and timely interventions to appropriately aid student wellbeing after witnessing restraint.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the need for improved communication between higher education institutions and clinical practice in relation to restraint. Opportunities for debriefs within higher education learning environments should be considered in order to improve student nurses’ wellbeing and experiences of their nursing degree programme.
Mental health workforce in England: regional trends and disparities
Authors: Beazley Peter
Published: November 2024

In this analysis article, Peter Beazley examines trends in the size of the mental health workforce in comparison to population growth and the overall NHS clinical workforce in different regions across England.
Assessing healthcare workers’ knowledge and confidence in the diagnosis, management and prevention of Monkeypox
Authors: Ntawuyamara Epipode , Ingabire Thierry , Yandemye Innocent , Ndayikeza Polycarpe , Bhandari Bina , Liang Yan-Hua
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Monkeypox (Mpox), is a disease of global public health concern, as it does not affect only countries in western and central Africa.

AIM

To assess Burundi healthcare workers (HCWs)s’ level of knowledge and confidence in the diagnosis and management of Mpox.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study via an online survey designed mainly from the World Health Organization course distributed among Burundi HCWs from June-July 2023. The questionnaire comprises 8 socioprofessional-related questions, 22 questions about Mpox disease knowledge, and 3 questions to assess confidence in Mpox diagnosis and management. The data were analyzed via SPSS software version 25.0. A P value < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance.

RESULTS

The study sample comprised 471 HCWs who were mainly medical doctors (63.9%) and nurses (30.1%). None of the 22 questions concerning Mpox knowledge had at least 50% correct responses. A very low number of HCWs (17.4%) knew that Mpox has a vaccine. The confidence level to diagnose (21.20%), treat (18.00%) or prevent (23.30%) Mpox was low among HCWs. The confidence level in the diagnosis of Mpox was associated with the HCWs’ age (P value = 0.009), sex (P value < 0.001), work experience (P value = 0.002), and residence (P value < 0.001). The confidence level to treat Mpox was significantly associated with the HCWs’ age (P value = 0.050), sex (P value < 0.001), education (P value = 0.033) and occupation (P value = 0.005). The confidence level to prevent Mpox was associated with the HCWs’ education (P value < 0.001), work experience (P value = 0.002), residence (P value < 0.001) and type of work institution (P value = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that HCWs have the lowest level of knowledge regarding Mpox and a lack of confidence in the ability to diagnose, treat or prevent it. There is an urgent need to organize continuing medical education programs on Mpox epidemiology and preparedness for Burundi HCWs. We encourage future researchers to assess potential hesitancy toward Mpox vaccination and its associated factors.
Stage IV malignant transformation of mature cystic teratoma palliatively treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy: A case report
Authors: Kondo Saori , Suzuki Takashi , Yoshiike Kanato , Yamanaka Sakura , Sonehara Kenta , Nabeshima Hiroshi , Oguchi Osamu
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Malignant transformation (MT) of mature cystic teratoma (MCT) has a poor prognosis, especially in advanced cases. Concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) has an inhibitory effect on MT.

CASE SUMMARY

Herein, we present a case in which CCRT had a reduction effect preoperatively. A 73-year-old woman with pyelonephritis was referred to our hospital. Computed tomography revealed right hydronephrosis and a 6-cm pelvic mass. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) revealed squamous cell carcinoma. The patient was diagnosed with MT of MCT. Due to her poor general condition and renal malfunction, we selected CCRT, expecting fewer adverse effects. After CCRT, her performance status improved, and the tumor size was reduced; surgery was performed. Five months postoperatively, the patient developed dissemination and lymph node metastases. Palliative chemotherapy was ineffective. She died 18 months after treatment initiation.

CONCLUSION

EUS-FNB was useful in the diagnosis of MT of MCT; CCRT suppressed the disease and improved quality of life.
Prediction of the Mean Time to Failures of a Complex System Using the Monte Carlo Simulation Method
Authors: Guesmi Hedi A.
Published: November 2024

This paper presents a Monte Carlo-based algorithm for predicting the Mean Time to Failure (MTTF) of complex structures, specifically a “Bridge-type network” with five elements exhibiting various failure distributions. The proposed algorithm involves generating element lifetimes through the inverse of their failure distribution functions, providing a robust approach to evaluating MTTF for systems beyond traditional series or parallel configurations.
The approach was implemented in MATLAB, and the software underwent extensive testing across different scenarios, including both exponential and Weibull distributions. The results demonstrated the method’s accuracy and its capability to handle diverse failure distributions with minimal error. This tool offers reliability engineers a versatile solution for predicting and improving the reliability of complex systems.
In summary, the proposed method and software significantly advance the reliability assessment of intricate structures and offer a solid foundation for further research and practical applications in the field of reliability engineering.
Alain Locke's Value Theory and Pragmatist Defense of Beauty
Authors: Kim Heeyeon
Published: November 2024

Abstract: This essay explores Alain Locke's value theory in relation to his defense of beauty in the 1920's "beauty vs. propaganda" debate. Animated by a pragmatic commitment to resolving real-life value conflicts, many theories of valuation—including those proposed by Ralph Barton Perry and John Dewey—explored the question of whether values can be formed beyond interest and whether they can be arranged in a single hierarchy and compared. Locke turned to transvaluation—changes in value category—as a potential resolution for real-life value conflicts. This essay examines how Locke's philosophical work as a value theorist can be brought in relation to his other forays into African American cultural politics: mainly, his unremitting defense of beauty and cultural production even in the face of more urgent imperatives like civil and political rights.
Everything Honks, Everything Creaks: Frank O'Hara and the Early Poetry of James Schuyler
Authors: Wiśniewski Mikołaj
Published: November 2024

Abstract: In 1993, Geoff Ward stated that "O'Hara's methods were in a sense absorbed and filtered by Schuyler, his more exploratory and prolific output converted to a series of moves, a repertoire, that Schuyler could then deploy at will" (14–15). Schuyler, however, did not simply mimick the characteristic rhetorical gestures of O'Hara's improvisational approach. O'Hara's influence on Schuyler's poetic sensitivity is undeniable, but this does not mean that Schuyler's work can be adequately described as an amalgam of elements gleaned from O'Hara. Despite many formal and thematic resemblances, Schuyler was interested in issues significantly different from those which absorbed O'Hara. O'Hara donned many costumes; in short, there are many different Frank O'Haras. I suggest taking a closer look at particular poems (the early ones) to see which of these costumes Schuyler at times borrowed from his friend.
A Tale of Two Halls: An Exploration of the Natural World in The Wife's Lament
Authors: Lehosit Amelia
Published: November 2024

Abstract: Past interpretations of The Wife's Lament focus primarily on the intangibles within the poem—speech, emotion, and symbolism—to the neglect of the physical details of the natural world the Wife inhabits. One overlooked detail, in particular, is the inclusion of the oak tree that the Wife sits beneath. This paper explores the Wife's relationship to nature and how it differs dramatically from those depictions found elsewhere in the genre of Old English elegy, paying specific attention to the presence of the oak tree. The presentation of the Wife's relationship to the natural world encourages a reading of the text in which she effectively grows her grief into power, in thematic divergence from the other elegiac voices, such as those within The Seafarer and The Wanderer . In tracing the poem's narrative as well as historical evidence for the reputation and use of oak trees in the early English centuries, I show that the poem reveals a more progressive vision of female autonomy and agency, as the oak tree establishes the Wife as something akin to a lord in her own home, setting the stage for the final tension between her own hall of earth and her husband's hall of stone. In the end, the Wife emerges as a ruler in her own right under her oak tree, and from her tragic tale emerges one of the most powerful—in speech, in action, and in place—female figures in Old English literature.