bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First step towards a consensus strategy for multi-locus diagnostic testing of imprinting disorders
Authors: Mackay Deborah , Bliek Jet , Kagami Masayo , Tenorio-Castano Jair , Pereda Arrate , Brioude Frédéric , Netchine Irène , Papingi Dzhoy , de Franco Elisa , Lever Margaret , Sillibourne Julie , Lombardi Paola , Gaston Véronique , Tauber Maithé , Diene Gwenaelle , Bieth Eric , Fernandez Luis , Nevado Julian , Tümer Zeynep , Riccio Andrea , Maher Eamonn R. , Beygo Jasmin , Tannorella Pierpaola , Russo Silvia , de Nanclares Guiomar Perez , Temple I. Karen , Ogata Tsutomu , Lapunzina Pablo , Eggermann Thomas
Published: November 2022

Background

Imprinting disorders, which affect growth, development, metabolism and neoplasia risk, are caused by genetic or epigenetic changes to genes that are expressed from only one parental allele. Disease may result from changes in coding sequences, copy number changes, uniparental disomy or imprinting defects. Some imprinting disorders are clinically heterogeneous, some are associated with more than one imprinted locus, and some patients have alterations affecting multiple loci. Most imprinting disorders are diagnosed by stepwise analysis of gene dosage and methylation of single loci, but some laboratories assay a panel of loci associated with different imprinting disorders. We looked into the experience of several laboratories using single-locus and/or multi-locus diagnostic testing to explore how different testing strategies affect diagnostic outcomes and whether multi-locus testing has the potential to increase the diagnostic efficiency or reveal unforeseen diagnoses.

Results

We collected data from 11 laboratories in seven countries, involving 16,364 individuals and eight imprinting disorders. Among the 4721 individuals tested for the growth restriction disorder Silver–Russell syndrome, 731 had changes on chromosomes 7 and 11 classically associated with the disorder, but 115 had unexpected diagnoses that involved atypical molecular changes, imprinted loci on chromosomes other than 7 or 11 or multi-locus imprinting disorder. In a similar way, the molecular changes detected in Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome and other imprinting disorders depended on the testing strategies employed by the different laboratories.

Conclusions

Based on our findings, we discuss how multi-locus testing might optimise diagnosis for patients with classical and less familiar clinical imprinting disorders. Additionally, our compiled data reflect the daily life experiences of diagnostic laboratories, with a lower diagnostic yield than in clinically well-characterised cohorts, and illustrate the need for systematising clinical and molecular data.
Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis in a child with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome: a case report
Authors: Guernsey David , Arun Aparna , Agha Rabia , Kupferman Juan C.
Published: November 2022

Background

Children with nephrotic syndrome are at increased risk of infections, including bacterial peritonitis, pneumonia, and cellulitis. However, bacterial meningitis, a potentially life-threatening complication, has not been highlighted as an infectious complication of nephrotic syndrome in recent reviews. We report a very subtle and unusual presentation of bacterial meningitis in a child with nephrotic syndrome, which without a high index of suspicion, would have been missed.

Case presentation

A 9-year-old African-American male with a history of steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome presented to the nephrology clinic for routine follow-up. His medications included mycophenolate mofetil and alternate-day steroids. His only complaint was neck pain and stiffness that the mother attributed to muscle tightness relieved by massage. There was no history of fever, vomiting, headache, photophobia, or altered mental status. On physical examination, he was afebrile (99 °F), but had mild periorbital swelling and edema on lower extremities. He appeared ill and exhibited neck rigidity, and demonstrated reflex knee flexion when the neck was bent. Laboratory evaluation revealed leukocytosis, elevated C-reactive protein, hypoalbuminemia, and proteinuria. Cerebrospinal fluid suggested bacterial meningitis. The patient was treated with ceftriaxone and vancomycin. Both cerebrospinal and blood cultures grew Streptococcus pneumoniae; vancomycin was discontinued. The child completed a 2-week course of ceftriaxone and was discharged home.

Conclusions

A high index of suspicion is necessary in children with nephrotic syndrome treated with corticosteroids, as symptoms may be masked, and thus, a life-threatening disease be missed. Bacterial meningitis should be highlighted as a serious infection complication in children with nephrotic syndrome.
Analysis on the equity differential on household healthcare financing in developing countries: empirical evidence from Tanzania, East Africa
Authors: Kitole Felician Andrew , Lihawa Robert Michael , Mkuna Eliaza
Published: November 2022

Background

Achieving equity in healthcare services has been a global priority. According to the literature, a slew of initiatives aimed at increasing household equity in healthcare financing have exacerbated the problem, making it hard for most developing countries to understand the real cause of the problem.

Method

The non-experimental research design has been used to explore the Tanzania Panel Survey (NPS) data 2019/2020, to investigate equity differential in household healthcare financing in Tanzania by the use of conventional instrumental variable methods of Two-stage and Three-stage least square methods

Results

Despite the global agenda of universal health coverage, this paper reveals that 86 percent of Tanzania lacks health insurance with a high degree of inequitable distribution of health facilities as 71.54 percent of the population is in rural areas, yet these areas have poor health systems compared to urban ones. These disparities increase pressure on household healthcare financing and widen the inequity and equality gaps simultaneously. Additionally, a household's income, education, health care waivers, out-of-pocket expenditure, and user fees have been found to have a significant impact on household equity in healthcare financing.

Conclusion

To reverse the situation and increase equity in household healthcare financing in most developing countries, this paper suggests that an adequate pooling system should be used to allow more people to be covered by medical prepayment programs, and the donor-funded programs in developing countries should focus on health sector infrastructure development and not the capacity building.
Influence of access to finance on the competitive growth of SMEs in Lesotho
Authors: Amadasun Donald O. E. , Mutezo Ashley T.
Published: November 2022

Background

Access to finance has been identified as one of the biggest problems faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in most developing economies. Similarly, access to finance has been identified as a dominant constraint facing the SME sector in Lesotho. This paper established the factors related to access to finance that influence the competitive growth of the SME sector in Lesotho. The factors that were identified include financial information access, bank and business support services, the structure of banks, and the collateral requirements of the financial sector.

Findings

The results from our analysis indicated that a relationship exists between the independent variables of financial information access, bank and business support services, the structure of banks, and the collateral requirement by commercial banks. As such these independent variables are associated with SMEs’ capacity to attain competitive growth in Lesotho. Explicitly, the results indicated that Basotho entrepreneurs and managers see the predictors (collateral requirement, financial information access, and bank and business support services) as critical factors of access to finance that constrain most enterprises from accessing the necessary credit from banks, which ultimately influence the SMEs’ capacity to attain competitive growth in Lesotho.

Conclusions

The study concludes that access to finance significantly affects the competitive growth of SMEs in Lesotho. Thus, this study suggests that several specific and harmonized financial policy actions are needed in the Lesotho financial market to establish an enabling policy that will ease enterprises’ access to adequate funding programs. These funding programs should target improved financial schemes that are coordinated, competitive, and directed towards Basotho SMEs’ access to finance, and enables a harmonized credit policy that guarantees a win–win for SME loan applicants and the financial market operators.
Does self-esteem mediate the association between perfectionism and mindfulness among Lebanese university students?
Authors: Awad Emmanuelle , Hallit Souheil , Obeid Sahar
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the associations between mindfulness, self-esteem and perfectionism in a Lebanese sample of university students, as well as the indirect effect of self-esteem between mindfulness and perfectionism was investigated.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was carried out between July and September 2021. A total of 363 university students were recruited through convenience sampling through several universities in Lebanon’s governorates. An online survey that included a part that collected sociodemographic information, the Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory to assess mindfulness, the Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale to assess self-esteem and the Big Three Perfectionism Scale to assess perfectionism was completed by participants.

Results

Higher self-esteem (Beta = 1.30) was significantly associated with more mindfulness, whereas higher self-critical perfectionism (Beta = − 0.61) was significantly associated with less mindfulness. Self-esteem mediated the association between self-critical and narcissistic perfectionism and mindfulness. More perfectionism was significantly and directly associated with less mindfulness and lower self-esteem, whereas higher self-esteem was significantly associated with more mindfulness.

Conclusion

This study provides valuable findings that enable practitioners to effectively identify people needing interventions to improve psychological health through mindfulness, self-esteem and perfectionism. The conclusions that can be deduced from this study can help educational psychologists and counselors guide university students towards effective mindfulness practices that can increase self-esteem levels and balance maladaptive perfectionism that can cause distress and impairment in the social and academic settings.
Morphometric analysis of patient-specific 3D-printed acetabular cups: a comparative study of commercially available implants from 6 manufacturers
Authors: Hothi Harry , Henckel Johann , Bergiers Sean , Di Laura Anna , Schlueter-Brust Klaus , Hart Alister
Published: November 2022

Background

3D printed patient-specific titanium acetabular cups are used to treat patients with massive acetabular defects. These have highly porous surfaces, with the design intent of enhancing bony fixation. Our aim was to characterise these porous structures in commercially available designs.

Methods

We obtained 12 final-production, patient-specific 3D printed acetabular cups that had been produced by 6 manufacturers. High resolution micro-CT imaging was used to characterise morphometric features of their porous structures: (1) strut thickness, 2) the depth of the porous layer, (3) pore size and (4) the level of porosity. Additionally, we computed the surface area of each component to quantify how much titanium may be in contact with patient tissue. Statistical comparisons were made between the designs.

Results

We found a variability between designs in relation to the thickness of the struts (0.28 to 0.65 mm), how deep the porous layers are (0.57 to 11.51 mm), the pore size (0.74 to 1.87 mm) and the level of porosity (34 to 85%). One manufacturer printed structures with different porosities between the body and flange; another manufacturer had two differing porous regions within the body of the cups. The cups had a median (range) surface area of 756.5 mm2 (348 – 1724).

Conclusions

There is a wide variability between manufacturers in the porous titanium structures they 3D print. We do not currently know whether there is an optimal porosity and how this variability will impact clinically on the integrity of bony fixation; this will become clearer as post market surveillance data is generated.
Planning preclinical confirmatory multicenter trials to strengthen translation from basic to clinical research – a multi-stakeholder workshop report
Authors: Drude Natascha Ingrid , Martinez-Gamboa Lorena , Danziger Meggie , Collazo Anja , Kniffert Silke , Wiebach Janine , Nilsonne Gustav , Konietschke Frank , Piper Sophie K. , Pawel Samuel , Micheloud Charlotte , Held Leonhard , Frommlet Florian , Segelcke Daniel , Pogatzki-Zahn Esther M. , Voelkl Bernhard , Friede Tim , Brunner Edgar , Dempfle Astrid , Haller Bernhard , Jung Marie Juliane , Riecken Lars Björn , Kuhn Hans-Georg , Tenbusch Matthias , Higuita Lina Maria Serna , Remarque Edmond J. , Grüninger-Egli Servan Luciano , Manske Katrin , Kobold Sebastian , Rivalan Marion , Wedekind Lisa , Wilcke Juliane C. , Boulesteix Anne-Laure , Meinhardt Marcus W. , Spanagel Rainer , Hettmer Simone , von Lüttichau Irene , Regina Carla , Dirnagl Ulrich , Toelch Ulf
Published: November 2022

Clinical translation from bench to bedside often remains challenging even despite promising preclinical evidence. Among many drivers like biological complexity or poorly understood disease pathology, preclinical evidence often lacks desired robustness. Reasons include low sample sizes, selective reporting, publication bias, and consequently inflated effect sizes. In this context, there is growing consensus that confirmatory multicenter studies -by weeding out false positives- represent an important step in strengthening and generating preclinical evidence before moving on to clinical research. However, there is little guidance on what such a preclinical confirmatory study entails and when it should be conducted in the research trajectory. To close this gap, we organized a workshop to bring together statisticians, clinicians, preclinical scientists, and meta-researcher to discuss and develop recommendations that are solution-oriented and feasible for practitioners. Herein, we summarize and review current approaches and outline strategies that provide decision-critical guidance on when to start and subsequently how to plan a confirmatory study. We define a set of minimum criteria and strategies to strengthen validity before engaging in a confirmatory preclinical trial, including sample size considerations that take the inherent uncertainty of initial (exploratory) studies into account. Beyond this specific guidance, we highlight knowledge gaps that require further research and discuss the role of confirmatory studies in translational biomedical research. In conclusion, this workshop report highlights the need for close interaction and open and honest debate between statisticians, preclinical scientists, meta-researchers (that conduct research on research), and clinicians already at an early stage of a given preclinical research trajectory.
Patterns of respiratory tract infections in children under 5 years of age in a low–middle-income country
Authors: El-Koofy Nehal M. , El-Shabrawi Mortada H. , Abd El-alim Basant A. , Zein Marwa M. , Badawi Nora E.
Published: November 2022

Background

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are among the most commonly encountered major public health problems, with a higher prevalence of lower RTIs among children and more generally the poor. The present study aimed to describe the pattern of respiratory tract infections in Egyptian children aged under 5 years and explore possible associations between socio-demographics and nutritional status and types of RTIs.

Methods

Over 6 months beginning in September 2018 (including one winter season), a cross-sectional, observational, epidemiological study was conducted on a sample of patients with upper and lower RTIs diagnosed clinically and/or radiologically in the outpatient clinics at Cairo University Children’s Hospital in Egypt. An interview questionnaire was employed to collect socio-demographic and nutritional data. Heights/lengths and weights were measured and analyzed using the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Anthro Plus [Computer Program]. Patients with pneumonia (n = 28) were compared to 97 healthy children of the same age and sex.

Results

The total number of children diagnosed with upper and lower respiratory infections was 611. Malnutrition was present in 12.4% of all children with upper and lower RTIs. Lower RTI and malnutrition were substantially more prevalent among children aged under 2 years (p = 0.048 and p < 0.001, respectively). The strongest predictor of lower RTI was a younger age (OR 0.797, CI 0.713–0.89, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

At our center, approximately one-third of infections in under-fives were lower RTI. Malnutrition was one of the significant risk factors for lower RTI in children below 2 years. The nutritional status of infants and young children should be improved by encouraging exclusive breastfeeding during the first 6 months of life and strengthening the healthcare and nutritional counseling available for vulnerable children, particularly in rural regions.
Liposarcoma of the scalp mimicking a lipoma: a case report
Authors: Subha Sethu Thakachy , Sanjurjo Andrea , Poyet Karen Masterson , Marchal Francis
Published: November 2022

Background

Liposarcomas are malignant tumours of adipocytic differentiation and their occurrence within the head and neck region is very uncommon. Lipomas are the most common types of benign mesenchymal tumours. The clinical, histological and imaging features of well-differentiated liposarcoma may resemble that of lipoma, causing challenges in the diagnosis. The management and prognosis of benign lipomas and well-differentiated liposarcoma are different.

Case presentation

A 73-year-old man presented with a painless soft mass in the left temporal region for 15 years with recent rapid growth. The scalp mass was clinically diagnosed as lipoma, while MRI suspected an atypical lipomatous lesion. Complete surgical resection was performed, and histopathological examination confirmed a well-differentiated liposarcoma.

The patient recovered completely and will be followed up with long-term surveillance.

Conclusion

This report is to highlight that clinicians must have a high index of suspicion for this rare entity when dealing with scalp masses and suspicious radiological findings, which can affect the overall management and prognosis.
Harmonization of robust radiomic features in the submandibular gland using multi-ultrasound systems: a preliminary study
Authors: Choi Yoon Joo , Jeon Kug Jin , Lee Ari , Han Sang-Sun , Lee Chena
Published: November 2022

Objective:

This study aimed to identify robust radiomic features in multiultrasonography of the submandibular gland and normalize the interdevice discrepancies by applying a machine-learning-based harmonization method.

Methods:

Ultrasonographic images of normal submandibular gland of young healthy adults, aged between 20 and 40 years, were selected from two different devices. In a total of 30 images, the region of interest was determined along the border of gland parenchyma, and 103 radiomic features were extracted using A-VIEW. The coefficient of variation (CV) was obtained for individual features, and the features showing CV less than 10% were selected. For the selected features, the interdevice discrepancy was normalized using machine-learning method, called the ComBat harmonization. Median differences of the features between the two scanners, before and after harmonization, were compared using Mann–Whitney U-test; confidence interval of 95%.

Results:

Among total 103 radiomic features, 17 features were selected as robust, showing CV less than 10% in both scanners. All values of selected features, except two, showed a statistical difference between the two devices. After applying the ComBat harmonization method, the median and distribution of the 16 features were harmonized to show no significant difference between the two scanners (p > 0.05). One feature remained different (p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion:

On ultrasonographic examination, robust radiomic features for normal submandibular gland were obtained and interdevice normalization was efficiently conducted using ComBat harmonization. Our findings would be useful for multidevices or multicenter studies based on clinical ultrasonographic imaging data to improve the accuracy of the overall diagnostic model.
Η συγκρότηση των κοινοτικών δεσμών στη σύγχρονη κοινωνία
Authors: Παπούλης Αθανάσιος
Published: November 2022

Η διατριβή αυτή διερευνά τον τρόπο με τον οποίο συγκροτούνται οι κοινοτικοί δεσμοί, και, κατ’ επέκτασιν, η Κοινότητα μεταξύ των ανθρώπων, ως ηθικά ενεργός τρόπος άμεσης αλληλοσυσχέτισης και αλληλόδρασης παρόντων υποκειμένων. Λαμβάνοντας υπόψιν τη σύγχρονη πολιτισμική πραγματικότητα της μετανεωτερικότητας, εντός της οποίας λαμβάνει χώρα το κάθε κοινοτικό εγχείρημα και η ίδια η διερώτηση για την δυνατότητά του, και μέσω της εφαρμογής μιας φιλοσοφικής σκοπιάς που εστιάζει στην κρισιμότητα της σχέσης μεταξύ των υποκειμένων ως προσώπων, διασαφηνίζονται οι ηθικές διαστάσεις της συμπαρουσίας και αναδυκνείεται μια σύλληψη του κοινού η οποία βασίζεται στην αμοιβαία στάση διαθεσιμότητας των Εγώ που συγκροτούν το κοινοτικό Εμείς.
Μελέτη των μεταβολικών επιδράσεων της χορήγησης θεραπευτικών δόσεων βιταμίνης D σε ασθενείς με νοσογόνο παχυσαρκία που υποβάλλονται σε χειρουργείο χολοπαγκρεατικής εκτροπής
Authors: Βολονάκης Σωτήριος
Published: November 2022

Ο στόχος της μελέτης είναι να διερευνήσει την επίδραση της επαρκούς συμπλήρωσης βιταμίνης D, ώστε να αποφευχθεί η ανάπτυξη δευτεροπαθούς υπερπαραθυρεοειδισμού, στην οστική πυκνότητα (BMD) μετά από ένα δυσαπορροφητικό βαριατρικό χειρουργείο τη χολοπαγκρεατική εκτροπή με μακριές έλικες (LL-BPD). Είναι γνωστό ότι η μεγάλη απώλεια βάρους μετά από βαριατρική χειρουργική επέμβαση σχετίζεται με σημαντική μείωση της BMD, που έχει αποδοθεί στην απώλεια βάρους και σε διατροφικές ανεπάρκειες ιχνοστοιχείων, ασβεστίου και βιταμίνης D με αποτέλεσμα δευτερογενή υπερπαραθυρεοειδισμό. Στην μελέτη συμπεριελήφθησαν δύο ομάδες, 35 και 37 υγειών παχύσαρκων γυναικών (ΔΜΣ, 50,4 ± 6,6 και 46,5±4,8 g/cm2), προεμμηνοπαυσιακών, με φυσιολογική έμμηνο ρύση που υποβλήθηκαν σε LL-BPD. Και οι δύο ομάδες έλαβαν δίαιτες υψηλού ασβεστίου, 600 IU βιταμίνης D και 1100 mg στοιχειακού ασβεστίου καθημερινά, ενώ η ομάδα Β έλαβε μια επιπλέον δόση βιταμίνης D (10.000 IU/ημέρα) κατά τον πρώτο μετεγχειρητικό μήνα, ακολουθούμενη από προσαρμογή της δόσης για να διατηρεί συγκέντρωση 25OHD υψηλότερη από 30 μg/L. Η aBMD μετρήθηκε στην οσφυϊκή μοίρα της σπονδυλικής στήλης πριν και 1 έτος μετά το χειρουργείο. Στην ομάδα παρέμβασης μετρήθηκε και στο ισχίο. Ένα χρόνο μετά το χειρουργείο, ο ΔΜΣ μειώθηκε κατά περίπου 19 kg/m2 και στις δύο ομάδες, ενώ τα επίπεδα 25ΟΗD δεν άλλαξαν στην ομάδα Α (από 18,7 ± 9,1 σε 20,2 ±13,0 μg/L, (p = 0.428)) και αυξήθηκαν σημαντικά στην ομάδα Β (από 15,58 ± 5,73 σε 52,97 ± 15,46 μg/L, (p = <0,001). Τα επίπεδα PTH αυξήθηκαν στην ομάδα Α (από 38,5 ± 12,2 σε 51,2 ± 32,8 pg/ml) (p = 0,047) και μειώθηκαν στην ομάδα Β (από 51,61 ± 18,7 σε 45,1 ± 17,8 pg/ml) (p = 0,042). Η aBMD στην οσφυϊκή μοίρα μειώθηκε παρόμοια και στις δύο ομάδες, 7,9% στην ομάδα Α και 7% στην ομάδα Β (p = 0,311 για τη σύγκριση μεταξύ ομάδων) από 1,198 ± 0,14 σε 1,103 ± 0,15 g / cm2 στην ομάδα Α (p<0,001) και από 1,157±0,14 σε 1,076 ± 0,14 g/cm2 στην ομάδα Β (p<0,001). Το Z-score μειώθηκε από 0,93±0,97 σε 0,19±1,02, (p<0,001) και από 1,15±1,29 σε 0,419±1,28, (p<0,001), αντίστοιχα. Στην ομάδα Β η μείωση της aBMD στο ισχίο ήταν 14,6%, από 1.16 + 0.13 g/cm2 προεγχειρητικά σε 0.99 + 0.11g/cm2 μετεγχειρητικά (p = <0,0001). Συμπερασματικά ένα έτος μετά από το δυσαπορροφητικό χειρουργείο LL-BPD η μείωση της οστικής μάζας ήταν παρόμοια και στις δυο ομάδες, ανεξάρτητα από την επαρκή ή όχι αναπλήρωση της βιταμίνης D και την αποτροπή της εμφάνισης ή όχι δευτερογενούς υπερπαραθυρεοειδισμού. Συμπεραίνουμε ότι η κύρια αιτία απώλειας οστικής μάζας είναι η μεγάλη απώλεια βάρους και η συνεπακόλουθη μειωμένη φόρτιση των οστών μετεγχειρητικά, όπως συνηγορεί και η μεγαλύτερη μείωση στο ισχίο που δέχεται μεγαλύτερες φορτίσεις.
Αξιόποινες προσβολές πληροφοριακών συστημάτων και ψηφιακών δεδομένων
Authors: Τουργέλης Παναγιώτης
Published: November 2022

Στην παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή εξετάζεται η ποινική αντιμετώπιση τωνκυβερνοεπιθέσεων σε πληροφοριακά συστήματα και ψηφιακά δεδομένα μέσω τηςερμηνευτικής προσέγγισης των άρθρων 370Β, 370Ε, 292Β και 292Γ ελλ.ισχ.ΠΚ de lege lata και de lege ferenda. Προαπαιτούμενο της εξέτασης αυτής είναι η διερεύνηση του περιεχομένου και της λειτουργίας της ασφάλειας των πληροφοριακών συστημάτων και των ψηφιακών δεδομένων (IT-Security), η οποία επιχειρείται στο β’ κεφάλαιο της διδακτορικής διατριβής.Το ερευνητικό αντικείμενο της διατριβής πλαισιώνει η εξέταση της ποινικής ευθύνης των παρόχων ψηφιακών υπηρεσιών (DSP) από διττή σκοπιά: Αφενός εξετάζεται η ποινική τους ευθύνη για τη διακίνηση τεχνικών εργαλείων “hacking”(Crimeware-as-a-Service, CaaS) και αφετέρου διερευνάται η διά παραλείψεως ποινική τους ευθύνη σε περιπτώσεις μη υιοθέτησης κατάλληλων τεχνικών και οργανωτικών μέτρων ασφάλειας (security-measures) των ψηφιακών υπηρεσιών τους.Επιπλέον συνεξετάζεται και η ποινική ευθύνη μίας δεύτερης κατηγορίας υπόχρεων προστασίας της πληροφορικής ασφάλειας, των κατασκευαστών ψηφιακών προϊόντων(IT-Producers), σε κυβερνοεπιθέσεις που έχουν ως τελικούς αποδέκτες τους χρήστες των ψηφιακών εφαρμογών.Το ά μέρος, που απαρτίζεται από τρία κεφάλαια, αποτελεί τρόπον τινά το «γενικό μέρος», στο οποίο επιχειρείται μία δικαιοσυστηματική και φαινομενολογική ανάπτυξη του ερευνητικού αντικειμένου της διατριβής. Στο β’ μέρος, που περιλαμβάνει τα υπόλοιπα τρία κεφάλαια, γίνεται μία εμβάθυνση στην ειδικότερη αντιμετώπιση των αξιόποινων πράξεων αθέμιτης πρόσβασης, υποκλοπής δεδομένων, παρεμβολής σε πληροφορικά συστήματα και των αξιόποινων προπαρασκευαστικών τους πράξεων, με βάση τα πορίσματα του «γενικού μέρους».
Ο θεσμός της αργίας στο δημοσιοϋπαλληλικό δίκαιο
Authors: Τραγουδάρα Δήμητρα
Published: November 2022

Η παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή εξετάζει το θεσμό της αργίας στο δημοσιοϋπαλληλικό δίκαιο, όπως αυτή ρυθμίζεται από τα άρθρα 103-105 του δημοσιοϋπαλληλικού κώδικα (ν.3528/2007). Η μελέτη διαρθρώνεται σε δύο Μέρη. Στο Πρώτο Μέρος καταγράφεται η ιστορική εξέλιξη της αργίας, αναλύονται τα ουσιώδη χαρακτηριστικά του θεσμού της αργίας και παρουσιάζονται οι αλλαγές και οι προβληματισμοί που προέκυψαν κατά τις νομοθετικές αλλαγές στο θεσμό της αργίας για το χρονικό διάστημα από το έτος 2012 έως το έτος 2015. Στο Δεύτερο Μέρος εξετάζεται και αναλύεται κριτικά το ισχύον καθεστώς του θεσμού της αργίας των δημοσίων υπαλλήλων. Στο πλαίσιο αυτό παρουσιάζονται και αναλύονται οι προϋποθέσεις της θέσεως του υπαλλήλου σε αυτοδίκαιη και δυνητική αργία και αναλύονται ειδικότερα ζητήματα που ανακύπτουν κατά την εφαρμογή των διατάξεων της αυτοδίκαιης και της δυνητικής αργίας. Αναλύονται, επίσης, οι συνέπειες που επιφέρει η επιβολή του μέτρου της αργίας, είτε αυτοδίκαιης είτε δυνητικής, στην υπηρεσιακή κατάσταση του υπαλλήλου και στην εν γένει υπαλληλική σταδιοδρομία του. Ακολούθως, εξετάζεται η στάθμιση μεταξύ των εννόμων αγαθών που αποτυπώνει ο θεσμός της αργίας, ήτοι του δημοσίου συμφέροντος υπό την ειδικότερη έκφανση του συμφέροντος της δημόσιας υπηρεσίας και του τεκμηρίου αθωότητας του υπαλλήλου. Παρατίθενται κριτήρια για τη διαδικασία της in concreto στάθμισης των δύο προαναφερθέντων εννόμων αγαθών και παρουσιάζονται τα λοιπά έννομα αγαθά που θίγονται από τη θέση του υπαλλήλου σε καθεστώς αργίας και τα οποία θα πρέπει να συνεκτιμώνται κατά τη διαδικασία της στάθμισης. Παρουσιάζεται, τέλος, η δικαστική προστασία του υπαλλήλου κατά της πράξης θέσης σε αργία, με έμφαση στην παροχή της προσωρινής δικαστικής προστασίας.Η μελέτη ολοκληρώνεται με συνοπτική αναφορά στα πορίσματά της.
Φυτοποικιλότητα στη Δυτική Ροδόπη
Authors: Χαραλαμπίδου Χαραλαμπία
Published: November 2022

Ο πλούτος της ελληνικής χλωρίδας κέντρισε το ενδιαφέρον της επιστημονικής κοινότητας από πολύ νωρίς. Από τις τελευταίες δεκαετίες του 19ου αιώνα έως σήμερα, ένας σημαντικός αριθμός Ελλήνων και ξένων βοτανικών δραστηριοποιούνται στην εξερεύνηση και στην έρευνα της ελληνικής χλωρίδας, σημειώνοντας αξιόλογη πρόοδο. Ωστόσο, πολλές περιοχές έχουν παραμείνει ανεξερεύνητες ή έχουν ερευνηθεί ανεπαρκώς.Δεδομένης της απουσίας μιας συστηματικής και ολοκληρωμένης έρευνας και καταγραφής της χλωρίδας της οροσειράς της Δυτικής Ροδόπης, η παρούσα διατριβή συμβάλλει στην πληρέστερη γνώση της.Με βάση τα στοιχεία που συλλέχθηκαν από το πεδίο αλλά και τα δείγματα ερμπαρίου που ενσωματώθηκαν σε αυτά, καθώς και τα δεδομένα της βιβλιογραφίας, συντάχθηκε ο χλωριδικός κατάλογος της περιοχής έρευνας που περιλαμβάνει 1.568 taxa από τα οποία τα 316 καταγράφηκαν για πρώτη φορά στην περιοχή. Τα 1.568 taxa που καταγράφηκαν κατανέμονται συνολικά σε 109 οικογένειες και 486 γένη. Οι πολυπληθέστερες σε αριθμό taxa οικογένειες είναι οι Asteraceae, Poaceae, Fabaceae, Caryophyllaceae, Rosaceae, Lamiaceae.Στο βιοτικό φάσματος της χλωρίδας κυριαρχούν τα ημικρυπτόφυτα με ποσοστό 52,17% και ακολουθούν τα θερόφυτα και τα γεώφυτα, με ποσοστό 22,26% και 12,69% αντίστοιχα. Η χωρολογική ανάλυση ανέδειξε ως επικρατέστερες τη χωρολογική ομάδα των ευρέως εξαπλωμένων taxa και συγκεκριμένα την κατηγορία των Ευρωπαϊκών-ΝΔ Ασίας taxa με ποσοστό 22,64% και 355 taxa να εντάσσονται σε αυτή. Μεγάλη είναι και η συμμετοχή των βαλκανικών ενδημικών taxa (Balkan) που ακολουθούν με ποσοστό 10,46% και 164 taxa.Τέλος, διερευνήθηκαν οι φυτογεωγραφικές σχέσεις της περιοχής έρευνας με τις χλωριδικές περιοχές της Ελλάδας και των γειτονικών χωρών της, μέσω του αριθμού των ενδημικών και υπενδημικών βαλκανικών taxa που μοιράζονται μεταξύ τους. Εντός ελληνικής επικράτειας ισχυρότερες αποδείχθηκαν οι σχέσεις με τη φυτογεωγραφική περιοχή της Βορειοκεντρικής Ελλάδας (NC), ενώ εκτός ελληνικής επικράτειας ισχυρότερες αποδείχθηκαν οι σχέσεις με τη Βουλγαρία.
Ευθέα και αντίστροφα φασματικά προβλήματα στη θεωρία σκέδασης
Authors: Στρατουράς Κυριάκος
Published: November 2022

Αυτή η διατριβή εξετάζει το ευθύ και αντίστροφο πρόβλημα για μια τροποποίηση του κλασικού προβλήματος ιδιοτιμών διαπερατότητας, η οποία προκύπτει μέσω της εισαγωγής ενός τεχνητού μεταϋιλικού υποβάθρου. Για τη μελέτη του ευθέος προβλήματος, αξιοποιούμε τη μεταβολική του διατύπωση και το θεώρημα Hilbert-Schmidt για να αποδείξουμε την διακριτότητα και ύπαρξη του φάσματος. Επιπρόσθετα, εάν ο κυματάριθμος είναι αρκούντως μικρός, συμπεραίνουμε ότι τα αντίστοιχα ζεύγη ιδιοσυναρτήσεων δεν αποτελούν πλήρες σύστημα στον χώρο λύσεων αφού δεν σχηματίζουν βάση Riesz. Ακολούθως, ορίζουμε ένα βοηθητικό φασματικό πρόβλημα το οποίο μας προμηθεύει με μια ορθοκανονική βάση, σε αντίθεση με το αρχικό πρόβλημα. Στη συνέχεια, χρησιμοποιούμε τη βάση αυτή για να εφαρμόσουμε ένα φασματικό σχήμα Galerkin, το οποίο θα προσεγγίζει τις άγνωστες ιδιοτιμές. Κάτω από την προαναφερθείσα συνθήκη για τον κυματάριθμο, αποδεικνύουμε ότι το διακριτό σχήμα Galerkin συγκλίνει στις άγνωστες ιδιοτιμές. Τέλος, για την ειδική περίπτωση όπου το χωρίο είναι ο μοναδιαίος δίσκος, παρουσιάζουμε κάποια αριθμητικά αποτελέσματα από την εφαρμογή της μεθόδου τα οποία επαληθεύουμε, χρησιμοποιώντας αναλυτικά υπολογισμένες ιδιοτιμές.Στην ειδική περίπτωση ενός τρισδιάστατου, σφαιρικά συμμετρικού δείκτη διάθλασης παρουσιάζουμε μια εναλλακτική απόδειξη για την ύπαρξη του φάσματος, αξιοποιώντας ασυμπτωτικές εκφράσεις για τις αντίστοιχες χαρακτηριστικές συναρτήσεις. Επιπλέον,θέτουμε το αντίστροφο φασματικό πρόβλημα και δείχνουμε ότι η γνώση του φάσματος μπορεί να προσδιορίσει με μοναδικό τρόπο μια ακολουθία πηλίκων από συνοριακά δεδομένα Cauchy. Τα πηλίκα αυτά, κάτω από την υπόθεση ότι ο κυματάριθμος δεν αποτελείιδιοτιμή Dirichlet, χρησιμοποιούνται στη συνέχεια για την απόδειξη ενός θεωρήματος μοναδικότητας για την ανακατασκευή ενός C[0, 1] δείκτη διάθλασης.
Case Report: Severe gastrointestinal bleeding revealing metastatic multifocal gastrointestinal angiosarcoma
Authors: Chabbouh Khaoula , Zarg El Ayoun Radhouane , Khsiba Amel , Makni Cyrine , Zribi Slim , Nechi Salwa , Chelby Emna , Hamzaoui Lamine
Published: November 2022

Background: Angiosarcoma is a rare soft-tissue sarcoma that can arise in any soft-tissue structure or viscera. Only individual case reports and small series of gastrointestinal angiosarcoma have been reported in the literature. In this paper, we report the first African case of small intestine epithelioid angiosarcoma.

Case report: Here, we present the case of a 66-year-old man who presented with melena and anemia. Physical examination showed the presence of two subcutaneous masses on the right and left flanks. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, duodenoscopy and jejunoscopy revealed multiple purpuric and hemorrhagic nodules and masses, some of which were bleeding. Pathological study of the ampullary formation and of a subcutaneous nodule concluded to the diagnosis of epithelioid angiosarcoma. Blood transfusions and interventional endoscopy by argan plasma coagulation were required due to a continued drop in hemoglobin. A drop in hemoglobin persisted and the patient died within 10 days.

Conclusions: Angiosarcoma has a very poor prognosis due to delayed prognosis and insufficient therapeutic management. Interventional endoscopy to control bleeding can be considered in localized forms. Chemotherapy may help to prolong survival in metastatic and disseminated angiosarcoma. Further studies should be conducted to improve the prognosis.
Modern approaches to address the concept of territorial division in Islamic jurisprudence
Authors: Alotaibi Hajed A.
Published: November 2022

Background: This article examines how current jurists can deal with a juristic division of the world into abode of "Islam” and “infidelity". The success with which jurists re-evaluate this dichotomy will have major impacts on how an Islamic state interacts with non-Muslim governments on the one hand, and Muslims residing temporarily or permanently in a non-Muslim territory on the other.

Methods: Here, an attempt made to review the concepts of Dar Al-Islam and Dar Al-Harb from two perspectives: that of the dialectical limits and liberalization, as discussed in secondary material such as books, research articles, and reports.

Results: this paper has explored and discussed the criteria for identifying Dar Al-Islam and Dar Al-Harb in Islamic jurisprudence.

Conclusions: This article analyzes the various arguments put forward to establish new ways of peaceful coexisting and maintaining healthy international connections.
The contradictory effects of coffee intake on periodontal health: a systematic review of experimental and observational studies
Authors: Bramantoro Taufan , Zulfiana Amalia Ayu , Amir Muhammad Subhan , Irmalia Wahyuning Ratih , Mohd Nor Nor Azlida , Nugraha Alexander Patera , Krismariono Agung
Published: November 2022

Background: Drinking coffee is known to have both positive and negative aftermath on periodontal health. The current study is aiming to systematically review the impact of coffee consumption on periodontal health status. Methods: An article search was carried out in two electronic databases (PUBMED and Web of Sciences). All type of experimental and observational studies were included. The assessment of the included articles were conducted using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tool. Data were analyzed qualitatively. Result: A total of 10 articles were included in this study. Most (5) of the studies discovered a negative correlation between coffee intake and periodontal health, while 4 other studies found the protective effect of daily coffee consumption against alveolar bone loss. Last, only one study found that coffee intake did not relate with periodontitis. Conclusion: The effect of coffee consumption on periodontal health was fragmented since coffee has complex components that may give either beneficial effects or negative impact on periodontal health.
Military health and performance optimization: a circadian strategy in response to governmental policies
Authors: Brager Allison , McKeon Ashlee , Russell Dale W. , Markwald Rachel R.
Published: November 2022

In 2017, USS Fitzgerald and USS John S. McCain, both guided-missile destroyers, experienced underway collisions that resulted in the deaths of 17 Sailors and degradation of national defense as two warships were removed from the frontline. This incident garnered Congress’ attention leading to numerous fatigue management policies and working groups instituted at various levels across the Department of Defense. One policy of the Department of the Navy (3120.2A; Dec 11, 2020) specifically addressed risk mitigation factors for maritime operations occurring in the overnight and early morning hours around the circadian nadir or trough in alertness and vigilance. Despite these circadian challenges that come with mission demands of military service, there are many opportunities as outlined in the Department of Navy policy to reduce and/or eliminate the performance-related risks associated with circadian misalignment. In regard to actionable systems and processes aligned with these policies, the first step is to perform a risk assessment to identify circadian-related problems that could arise in response to conducting the military training exercise or operation. The second step is to integrate a means to monitor 24-hour physiology, mitigate performance risk through fatigue countermeasures, and/or re-align the circadian timing system of military personnel to enhance sleep, manage fatigue, and optimize performance. Most importantly, the approach is not a one size fits all. Each military operation will require unique adaption (re-alignment) to the environment and each military operation may require a unique countermeasure(s).
Gastroprotective effect of Zinnia elegans extracts against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal damage through downregulation of TLR4 and inflammatory cytokines
Authors: Essam Hameed Zinah , Majeed Shareef Saja , G. Shareef Laith , Majid Alsaraf Khulood
Published: November 2022

Background: One of the most common gastrointestinal diseases is gastric ulcer (GU). The ethanolic extract from the aerial part of Zinnia elegans was created to test its ability to protect the gastric mucosa from damage caused by ethanol in mice.

Method: Zinnia elegans ethanolic extract was administrated intragastrically once daily for three days. After the final intragastric dose, gastric ulcer in mice was created on the third day using 70% ethanol. The stomach tissues were extracted to assess the severity of the gastric mucosal changes.

Results: Orally administered Zinnia elegans ethanolic extract reduced the severity of stomach mucosal changes. In addition, the levels of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin-1B (IL‐1β), and tool-like receptor (TLR4) activity in stomach tissues were all dramatically reduced after oral administration of the extract. These findings demonstrate that the anti-inflammatory properties of Zinnia elegans ethanolic extract protect against ethanol-induced stomach mucosal damage in mice.

Conclusions: The results of this investigation offer some support for the creation of new treatments for stomach ulcers as an alternative to treating gastric damage brought on by alcohol consumption.
Developing consensus-based recommendations for the delivery of dementia services for the LGBTQIA+ community in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Oglesby Megan H. , Hynes Sinéad M.
Published: November 2022

Background: The number of older LGBTQIA+ adults is set to rise significantly in the coming years. The rising numbers sit together with the rise in the number of people in Ireland diagnosed with dementia. In Ireland, no dementia-specific services exist for people from the LGBTQIA+ community. The aim of this research was to 1) identify the future needs that older LGBTQIA+ people and their care partners living in Ireland have in relation to dementia care service delivery; and to 2) develop consensus-based recommendations for dementia service provision in Ireland.

Methods: A six-phase consensus process was used to develop the lists of needs and recommendations: 1) development; 2) national survey; 3) interviews with key stakeholders; 4) international review of best practice; 5) consensus meeting; 6) final member checking. Participants, aged over 50, were based in Ireland, identified as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community or supported someone who is/was.

Results: Results are reported from the survey (n=49), individual interviews (n=8), and the consensus meeting (n=10). Participants have concerns related to identity management and suppression, creating an LGBTQIA+ affirmative ethos and workforce, and respect and safety. From the results and consensus process, a full list of ten prioritised needs and recommendations have been developed that focus specifically on dementia care in Ireland for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Conclusion: The older LGBTQIA+ community has identified essential priorities for improving healthcare access and safety. These priorities now need to be urgently implemented into clinical and dementia care services.
Connected Bradford: a Whole System Data Linkage Accelerator
Authors: Sohal Kuldeep , Mason Dan , Birkinshaw John , West Jane , McEachan Rosemary R.C. , Elshehaly Mai , Cooper Duncan , Shore Rob , McCooe Michael , Lawton Tom , Mon-Williams Mark , Sheldon Trevor , Bates Chris , Wood Megan , Wright John
Published: November 2022

The richness of linked population data provides exciting opportunities to understand local health needs, identify and predict those in most need of support and evaluate health interventions. There has been extensive investment to unlock the potential of clinical data for health research in the UK. However, most of the determinants of our health are social, economic, education, environmental, housing, food systems and are influenced by local authorities.

The Connected Bradford Whole System Data Linkage Accelerator was set up to link health, education, social care, environmental and other local government data to drive learning health systems, prevention and population health management. Data spanning a period of over forty years has been linked for 800,000 individuals using the pseudonymised NHS number and other data variables. This prospective data collection captures near real time activity.

This paper describes the dataset and our Connected Bradford Whole System Data Accelerator Framework that covers public engagement; practitioner and policy integration; legal and ethical approvals; information governance; technicalities of data linkage; data curation and guardianship; data validity and visualisation.
The feasibility of an objective measure of the parent-child relationship in health visiting practice: assessment of the Maternal Postnatal Attachment Scale
Authors: Dunn Abigail , Bird Philippa K , Endacott Charlotte , Bywater Tracey , Howes Joanna , Dickerson Josie
Published: November 2022

Background: Positive parent infant relationships are key to achieving long term child outcomes. Identifying parents who may need support is difficult because of a lack of robust assessment tools. Working in partnership with health services we piloted the Maternal Postnatal Attachment Scale (MPAS) in a deprived, multi-ethnic urban community in Bradford, UK. The pilot aimed to assess the clinical utility of MPAS to identify need for support: Was it administered to a representative group of women? Is MPAS valid for this population?

Methods: Data were linked to a cohort study in the pilot area (Born in Bradford’s Better Start - BiBBS). Chi Square tests assessed sample representativeness (age, ethnicity, parity, English language, education, deprivation). Exploratory factor analysis explored MPAS’ validity.

Results: 563 women in BiBBS were eligible, 210 (37%) completed MPAS.  No differences were found between completers and non-completers, suggestive of a representative sample. In total, 336 women (including a number of women living in the service area who had not participated in BiBBS) completed MPAS in the pilot.  MPAS had ceiling effects and a satisfactory factor structure could not be identified, indicating poor psychometric properties.

Conclusions: Health visitors were successful in administering MPAS to a representative sample, but the lack of psychometric robustness indicates that MPAS is unsuitable for routine use in this setting. A gap for such a measure remains.
Accounting Science and Bookkeeping: Conceptual Problems of the Present
Authors: Mislavskaya N.
Published: November 2022

The article, through the historical analysis of the development of the national accounting system, explores the current state of accounting science and practice. Attention is focused on the essence of the terminological meaning of accounting and bookkeeping, various points of view on the existence of fundamental differences between accounting science and practice are given. Considering accounting from the standpoint of the philosophy of science, the author reveals violations in the observance of the methodological principles of the formation of the theory and the implementation of practical activities in accounting.
New in Financial Legislation
Authors: Smirnov E.
Published: November 2022

In the course of improving fi nancial legislation based on an analysis of market practice, the Parliament of Russia this year adopted, in particular, Federal Laws No. 61-FZ dated March 25, 2022, No. 97-FZ dated April 16, 2022 and No. 353-FZ dated increasing the level of protection of the fi nancial interests of the state and the individual.
THE EFFECT OF SALICYLIC ACID TREATMENT ON GRAPEVINE SEEDLINGS DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Pavlyuchenko Natalya , Melnikova Svetlana , Kolesnikova Olga , Zimina Nataliya
Published: November 2022

The studies were carried out to assess the biological and economic efficiency of foliar application of the phytohormone salicylic acid when growing grafted grape seedlings in open ground conditions. The work was carried out in the field of Rostov region in 2019-2021 according to generally accepted methods in viticulture. The soil cover of the plots is ordinary chernozem, carbonate, medium-thick, heavy loamy, on loess-like loams. The seedlings were grown in an open way with soil mulching with a black film, planting pattern 0.2 × 0.15 m. The experiment included 6 options: control (water); standard (urea - 4 g/l); salicylic acid - 0.5 mg/l; salicylic acid - 1.0 mg/l; salicylic acid - 1.5 mg/l; salicylic acid - 2.0 mg/l, in 3 replications of 300 vaccinations. The experiments were carried out on the varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Denisovsky, Kumshatsky white. In the course of the study, biometric indicators of the development of the aerial part and the root system, the yield of standard seedlings were determined. The use of salicylic acid on all varieties stimulated the growth of shoots and leaf surface. In seedlings of Denisovsky variety, an increase in the diameter of the shoots by 0.2 ... 0.7 mm was noted, relative to the control. In seedlings of Cabernet Sauvignon variety, the number of roots exceeded the control by 3.4 ... 4.8 pieces, the standard - up to 1.2 pieces. There was a tendency to increase the number of roots in the Denisovsky variety, compared with the control, by 1.2 ... 2.8 pieces, significant differences with the standard were not found. The effect of salicylic acid treatment on the formation of the root system of seedlings of Kumshatsky white variety was the least pronounced, the largest excess over the control was 1.6 pcs. in the salicylic acid 0.5 mg/l variant, no significant differences with the standard were found. The highest yield of standard seedlings in Kumshatsky white variety was noted in the salicylic acid 0.5 mg/l variant - 62.8%, which is 11.3% higher than the control; Cabernet Sauvignon - salicylic acid 1.0 mg/l (73.3% and 9.0%, respectively); Denisovsky - salicylic acid 1.0 mg/l (44.6% and 5.3%).