bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degree of food processing and breast cancer risk: a prospective study in 9 European countries
Authors: Cairat Manon , Yammine Sahar , Fiolet Thibault , Fournier Agnès , Boutron-Ruault Marie-Christine , Laouali Nasser , Mancini Francesca Romana , Severi Gianluca , Berstein Fernanda Morales , Rauber Fernanda , Levy Renata Bertazzi , Skeie Guri , Borch Kristin Benjaminsen , Tjønneland Anne , Mellemkjær Lene , Borné Yan , Rosendahl Ann H. , Masala Giovanna , Giraudo Maria Teresa , de Magistris Maria Santucci , Katzke Verena , Bajracharya Rashmita , Santiuste Carmen , Amiano Pilar , Bodén Stina , Castro-Espin Carlota , Sánchez Maria-Jose , Touvier Mathilde , Deschasaux-Tanguy Mélanie , Srour Bernard , Schulze Matthias B. , Guevara Marcela , Kliemann Nathalie , Lopez Jessica Blanco , Al Nahas Aline , Chang Kiara , Vamos Eszter P. , Millett Christopher , Riboli Elio , Heath Alicia K. , Biessy Carine , Viallon Vivian , Casagrande Corinne , Nicolas Genevieve , Gunter Marc J. , Huybrechts Inge
Published: October 2024

Recent epidemiological studies have suggested a positive association between ultra-processed food consumption and breast cancer risk, although some studies also reported no association. Furthermore, the evidence regarding the associations between intake of food with lower degrees of processing and breast cancer risk is limited.

Thus, we investigated the associations between dietary intake by degree of food processing and breast cancer risk, overall and by breast cancer subtypes in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study.

Dietary intake of EPIC participants was assessed via questionnaires at baseline. More than 11,000 food ingredients were classified into four groups of food processing levels using the NOVA classification system: unprocessed/minimally processed (NOVA 1), culinary ingredients (NOVA 2), processed (NOVA 3) and ultra-processed (NOVA 4). Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of breast cancer per standard deviation increase in daily consumption (grams) of foods from each NOVA group.

The current analysis included 14,933 breast cancer cases, diagnosed among the 318,686 EPIC female participants, (median follow-up of 14.9 years). No associations were found between breast cancer risk and the level of dietary intake from NOVA 1 [HR per 1 SD=0.99 (95% CI 0.97 – 1.01)], NOVA 2 [HR per 1 SD =1.01 (95% CI 0.98 – 1.03)] and NOVA 4 [HR per 1 SD =1.01 (95% CI 0.99 – 1.03)] foods. However, a positive association was found between NOVA 3 and breast cancer risk [HR per 1 SD =1.05 (95% CI 1.03 – 1.07)] which became non-significant after adjustment for alcohol intake [HR per 1 SD =1.01 (95% CI 0.98 – 1.05)] or when beer and wine were excluded from this group [HR per 1 SD =0.99 (95% CI 0.97 – 1.01)]. The associations did not differ by breast cancer subtype, menopausal status or body mass index. Findings from this large-scale prospective study suggest that the positive association between processed food intake and breast cancer risk was likely driven by alcoholic beverage consumption.

Graphical Abstract
Paradoxical perceptions: minoritized high school students’ stereotypical and expansive views of science and scientists at an urban, inclusive STEM-focused high school (ISHS)
Authors: Tripp Jennifer N. , Waight Noemi , Liu Xiufeng
Published: October 2024

Existing research on inclusive STEM-focused high schools (ISHSs) has focused on the design and implementation of ISHSs at the school-level, along with the positive effects of ISHSs on STEM course taking, college majoring, and STEM career orientations. Missing from the literature are studies that foreground the perspectives and voices of students of color and their perceptions of science and scientists from asset-based, critical perspectives. Thus, the purpose of this qualitative case study is to document the perceptions of science and scientists among racially, ethnically, and linguistically minoritized ninth graders at an urban, inclusive STEM-focused high school in a mid-sized, northeastern city in the United States, along with the contexts, sources, and associated experiences informing these perceptions. Iterative cycles of inductive and deductive coding and domain analysis, informed by theoretical perspectives on ecological systems and Discourses, revealed paradoxical perceptions. Students viewed science as a body of knowledge, testing and experimenting, a life-enhancing discovery, building on background information, and connected with other disciplines and everywhere. Students’ perceptions of scientists were both stereotypical and expansive, including that scientists are smart and serious; use science equipment and gear in traditional lab contexts; and are creative, curious, and open-minded. While students primarily identified deceased White males as scientists, three girls of color mentioned counter-stereotypical women and people of color when they thought of science. Students noted that science field trips and after school programs, as well as science in the media and school, informed their perceptions. These findings suggest that despite reform efforts such as Science for All, very little has changed regarding conceptions of science and scientists. What is more, these findings are troubling when minoritized students at an ISHS continue to replicate status quo perceptions of science and scientists. This study has implications for practice, research, and policy related to building on and extending these views in more critically conscious and equity-oriented ways.
Exploring serum bile acids as potential noninvasive biomarkers for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Basuni Ashraf Abbass , Sweed Dina , Elgazzar Mohammed Fathey , Khalil Ashraf
Published: October 2024

Background

Bile acids are vital regulators of liver metabolism, and their dysregulation is closely linked with the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Profiling these bile acids may provide valuable diagnostic and prognostic markers for these conditions. This study aimed to evaluate bile acid profiles in NAFLD patients and assess their potential as biomarkers for diagnosing and predicting disease progression. Serum levels of 14 bile acids were measured in 25 normal healthy controls (NHC), 35patients with metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and 40 patients with NASH, categorized by the NAFLD Activity Score (NAS). Quantification was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS).

Results

Primary unconjugated bile acids, CA and CDCA, along with conjugated acids GCA, GCDCA, TCA, and TCDCA, were significantly elevated in both MASLD and NASH compared to NHC (all p < 0.05). While levels increased progressively from NHC to MASLD to NASH, no significant differences were observed between MASLD and NASH except for GCA and TCA (P < 0.05). Similarly, secondary bile acids LCA, TLCA, GUDCA, and TUDCA were higher in MASLD and NASH compared to NHC (all p < 0.05).

Logistic regression identified CA (odds ratio = 2.05, p = 0.02), CDCA (odds ratio = 1.58, p = 0.04), GCA (odds ratio = 1.92, p = 0.03) and DCA (odds ratio = 2.06, p = 0.04) as significant predictors of fibrosis. For active inflammation, GCA (odds ratio = 2.04, p = 0.04), and TCA (odds ratio = 1.94, p = 0.04) were significant predictors. In steatosis, CA, CDCA, GCA, DCA, TDCA, TLCA, and UDCA were notable predictors, with high odds ratios.

Conclusion

The study highlights significant alterations in bile acid profiles associated with NAFLD progression. Specific bile acids, such as CA, GCA, TCA, and TCDCA are strong predictors of disease severity, indicating their potential as biomarkers for NAFLD treatment and prognosis.
Roll force prediction using hybrid genetic algorithm with semi-supervised support vector regression
Authors: Rashwan Shaheera , ElShenawy Eman , Youssef Bayumy , Abdou Mohamed A.
Published: October 2024

Roll force prediction plays a significant role in rolling schedule and optimization. For a specific steel grade, the roll force can be determined by the aid of several factors: rolling speed, initial thickness, ratio of thickness reduction, the starting temperature of the strip, and the friction coefficient in the contact region. Roll force prediction mathematical models are sometimes rare and inaccurate. This paper presents a new approach to predict roll separating force using semi-supervised support vector regression (SSSVR). The parameters affecting the sensitivity of the SSSVR were optimized using the genetic algorithm to maximize the r-squared accuracy score. The intelligent system is evaluated using two quality metrics: the root mean square error (RMSE) and the mean absolute error calculated between the measured force from the industrial rolling field and the predicted force using the proposed system from one side, and the measured force and the calculated force from another side. Obtained results show the improvement while using the intelligent predictive system. The reduction in RMSE was achieved by the proposed system by 66.9% and 32.1% for oval and round shape passes, respectively in comparison to the conventional calculation method.
Scoping review on managing the bladder and preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) in athletes with spinal cord injuries
Authors: Ali Qasim , Long Yang , Ali Muhammad , Hamna  , Malhi Maria Naeemi
Published: October 2024

Background

This research aimed to identify evidence-based protocols for the safe management of bladder infections and the prevention of UTIs in athletes who have spinal cord injuries (SCI), as they are constantly at high risk of developing UTIs again.

Study design

Scoping review

Methodology

Four databases were searched (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Science Direct) for pertinent literature. The non-randomized controlled studies (non-RCT) and randomized controlled trials (RCT) that described the application of any particular measure to properly manage bladder and avoid urinary tract infections (UTIs) in people with spinal cord injuries (SCIs) were chosen.

Results

Forty-nine articles were screened for the effectiveness of weekly oral cyclic antibiotics, bacterial interference, coated catheter types, and patient education in preventing UTIs in SCI were shown in 20 RCT and 29 non-RCT researches. Concerns were raised about cranberry supplements and low-dose antibiotic prophylaxis, which is unreliable and leads to the emergence of germs that are resistant to many drugs.

Conclusion

According to the scoping review, WOCA is the most effective antibiotic regimen. The proven methods for treating UTIs in SCI patients include coated catheters, bacterial interference, bladder irrigation, and patient education. Moreover, there is a great deal of variation in the research about the efficacy of cranberries. The best option for safe bladder management and preventing UTIs in SCIs is to use suprapubic and coated intermittent catheters (ICs). When a urine bag is full, it should be changed out for a fresh one, and patients should be told to employ spontaneous voiding if that's not an option.
Further Optimizing Care of Patients With Operable Hormone Receptor–Sensitive Breast Cancer
Authors: Thomas Alexandra , Mayer Erica L. , DeMichele Angela , Harbeck Nadia , Curigliano Giuseppe , Ignatiadis Michail , Adam Virginie , Zhou Yang , Brown Thelma P. , Gilham Leslie , Chua Boon H. , Kalinsky Kevin , Wolff Antonio C. , O'Reilly Seamus
Published: October 2024

Harmonized global collaborations are crucial to improving outcomes in hormone sensitive operable breast cancer.
High Estradiol Environment After IVF Causes Increased Risk of Glucose Metabolic Dysfunction in Offspring
Authors: Lv Ping-Ping , Feng Chun , Ding Guo-Lian , Yu Dan-Qin , Yan Yi-Shang , Liu Juan , Lv Min , Ying Yan-Yun , Li Jing-Yi , Chen Xi-Jing , Ye Ying-Hui , Amanda Kallen , Wu Yan-ting , Huang He-Feng , Zhang Dan
Published: October 2024

Context

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is associated with increased metabolic risks in offspring. The effect of high maternal estradiol (E2) levels during early pregnancy on the glucose metabolism of offspring remains unclear.

Objective

This work aimed to evaluate glucose metabolism in children conceived via in vitro fertilization (IVF) and to assess whether high E2 exposure during early pregnancy is associated with metabolic alterations.

Methods

This retrospective analysis included 500 singletons aged 3 to 10 years born after fresh embryo transfer (ET) (n = 200), frozen ET (n = 100), and natural conception (NC) (n = 200) from a university hospital. Children underwent anthropometric measurements and examinations for fasting glucose, insulin, and lipid levels. A mouse model of high E2 exposure during early pregnancy was established to study glucose and insulin tolerance, and insulin secretion.

Results

Compared with NC, children born after fresh ET showed higher fasting glucose/insulin levels, increased insulin resistance, and higher incidence of impaired fasting glucose, which might be associated with higher maternal E2 levels. Frozen ET showed intermediate results. In mice, offspring exposed to high E2 levels during gestation exhibited impaired glucose/insulin tolerance and defects in insulin secretion.

Conclusion

High maternal E2 levels in early pregnancy are associated with altered glucose metabolism and increased metabolic risks in IVF-conceived children. Further studies are needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
“Unquestioned Citizenship”: History, Poetry, and Black and Native Military Service in Hampton Institute’s Southern Workman
Authors: Serafini Sidonia
Published: October 2024

This article explores how Black race histories, Native American traditionary histories, and tribute poems published in Hampton Institute’s Southern Workman (1872–1939) used military service as an imaginative foundation for thinking about citizenship beyond legal meanings. In race and traditionary histories, writers make visible the sacrifices of Black and Native soldiers that had been overlooked in official accounts of wars throughout US history. Writers also transform these histories’ commemorative aim into tribute poems, which accomplish similar work by recognizing publicly, through imaginative verse, Black and Native military service. These writers share a hope that military service might usher in the benefits of formal citizenship. But that hope is accompanied by a sense of skepticism, in that wartime did not always yield a completely united American front. With such contingencies in mind, writers use the act of military service as inspiration for the act of writing into the historical and literary record the legacy of Black and Native commissioned and noncommissioned men and women, bestowing upon each other a sense of “unquestioned citizenship” that the nation would not.
Clinical Measures Associated with Subsequent Injury after Adolescent Concussion: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: SMULLIGAN KATHERINE L. , CARRY PATRICK , WINGERSON MATHEW J. , DONAHUE CATHERINE , WILSON JULIE C. , HOWELL DAVID R.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to examine associations between clinical measures (self-reported and clinician administered) and subsequent injury rates in the year after concussion return to play (RTP) among adolescent athletes.

Methods

We performed a prospective, longitudinal study of adolescents ages 13–18 yr. Each participant was initially assessed within 21 d of concussion and again within 5 d of receiving RTP clearance from their physician. Participants completed self-report measures: the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, and clinician-administered measures: single- and dual-task tandem gait and reaction time (RT; simple and clinical) assessments. They then completed monthly surveys for a year after RTP, which assessed exposure to injury (sport participation) and subsequent injuries (musculoskeletal or concussions) sustained. We used Poisson regression models to calculate injury rate ratios with the number of subsequent injuries sustained as the outcome, adjusted for RTP clearance time and competitive exposures for each measure.

Results

Forty-one participants were included (age = 15.5 ± 1.3 yr, 56% female, 9.6 ± 4.6 d postconcussion; 38.0 ± 31.5 d to RTP). A higher injury rate per athletic exposure was observed for simple RT ≥ 505 ms versus <505 ms (injury rate ratio = 2.96, 95% confidence interval = 1.41-6.60, P = 0.005). Injury rates did not significantly differ by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index or Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia scores, single/dual-task tandem gait time, or clinical RT.

Conclusions

Simple RT may be one risk factor that is associated with higher rates of subsequent injury after adolescent concussion. A simple RT measure incorporated into a comprehensive concussion RTP assessment may identify some individuals at higher risk of subsequent injury in the year after concussion, although further research is needed to better understand this relationship.
Αναλογιστικά μέτρα κινδύνων και φαινόμενα ελαστικότητας σε κατανομές απώλειας
Authors: Βλιώρα Πολυξένη
Published: October 2024

Η διατριβή αυτή εστιάζει το ενδιαφέρον της στην κατασκευή αναλογιστικών μέτρων κινδύνου, που βασίζονται στις θεωρίες της στρεβλής και της σταθμισμένης προσδοκίας. Τα νέα προτεινόμενα μέτρα βρίσκουν εφαρμογή στην κατασκευή ασφαλίστρων και αναλογιστικών δεικτών. Διερευνούμε φαινόμενα ελαστικότητας, όπως για παράδειγμα μικρές διαταραχές στην κατανομή των αποζημιώσεων που επηρεάζουν τα μέτρα κινδύνου. Εφαρμόζουμε τη θεωρία διαταραχής σε διάφορες κατηγορίες στρεβλών συναρτήσεων, με σκοπό να μελετήσουμε τα μέτρα κινδύνου και να προτείνουμε νέους δείκτες μέτρησης της δεξιάς ουράς. Επιπλέον, εξετάζουμε φαινόμενα ελαστικότητας σε σταθμισμένα ασφάλιστρα, εισάγοντας μια θετική παράμετρο που έχει ως αποτέλεσμα την δημιουργία ενός ενδιάμεσου ασφάλιστρου, το οποίο βοηθάει τον αναλογιστή στην επιλογή μεταξύ δύο γνωστών αρχών ασφαλίστρων.
Ο ρόλος και οι επαγγελματικές δραστηριότητες των παιδαγωγών πρώιμης παιδικής ηλικίας
Authors: Rentzou Konstantina
Published: October 2024

Τα τελευταία χρόνια, η παιδαγωγική πρακτική που απευθύνεται σε βρέφη και μικρά παιδιά τυγχάνει αυξημένης προσοχής σε επίπεδο πολιτικής. Ωστόσο, λίγα είναι γνωστά για το τι εμπεριέχει η παιδαγωγική πρακτική για αυτή την ηλικιακή ομάδα και πώς οι παιδαγωγοί  βλέπουν τον ρόλο και την επαγγελματική τους ταυτότητα. Η παρούσα έρευνα φιλοδοξεί να καλύψει το ερευνητικό κενό σχετικά με το τι συνεπάγεται η επαγγελματική ταυτότητα και το έργο των παιδαγωγών πρώιμης παιδικής ηλικίας και να αναδείξει τις επαγγελματικές δραστηριότητες και τις παιδαγωγικές πρακτικές που υιοθετούνται στις τάξεις που φιλοξενούν παιδιά ηλικίας έως τριών ετών. Συνάμα, στόχος της έρευνας είναι χαρτογραφήσει τις απόψεις των παιδαγωγών για τη θέση της εκπαίδευσης και της φροντίδας στις τάξεις στις οποίες φιλοξενούνται παιδιά ηλικίας έως τριών ετών. 51 Έλληνες παιδαγωγοί πρώιμης παιδικής ηλικίας απάντησαν σε ένα διαδικτυακό ερωτηματολόγιο που περιελάμβανε ερωτήσεις κλειστού και ανοιχτού τύπου. Τα αποτελέσματα αποκαλύπτουν ότι ο ρόλος των παιδαγωγών είναι πολύπλοκος και πολύπλευρος και ότι οι παιδαγωγοί αφιερώνουν τον περισσότερο χρόνο τους σε πρακτικές εκπαίδευσης και φροντίδας παρά στη διαχείριση. Επιπλέον, τα αποτελέσματα υπογραμμίζουν ότι αν και οι συμμετέχοντες δεν αποδέχονται στο σύνολό τους τη συνύπαρξη της εκπαίδευσης και της φροντίδας στις τάξεις που φιλοξενούν παιδιά ηλικίας μέχρι τριών ετών, η φροντίδα κινείται πέρα από τους στενούς ορισμούς που περιλαμβάνουν ρουτίνες, σε μια ευρύτερη εικόνα της φροντίδας που περιλαμβάνει εκπαιδευτικές και σχεσιακές πτυχές. Τα αποτελέσματα υπογραμμίζουν την ανάγκη να διερευνηθούν περαιτέρω οι φωνές των παιδαγωγών πρώιμης παιδικής ηλικίας σχετικά με τον ρόλο, την επαγγελματική ταυτότητα και την εργασία τους.
Ο ρόλος των προϊσταμένων νηπιαγωγών κατά τη διάρκεια της πανδημίας, υπό το πρίσμα της VUCA (ασταθούς, αβέβαιης, πολύπλοκης και ασαφούς) ηγεσίας.
Authors: Σιδηροπούλου Ζωή , Γκιαούρη Στεργιανή
Published: October 2024

Πριν πέντε περίπου χρόνια, η παγκόσμια κοινότητα ήρθε αντιμέτωπη με την άγνωστη κατάσταση του COVID-19, η οποία έφερε στοιχεία ενός ασταθούς, αβέβαιου, περίπλοκου και διφορούμενου περιβάλλοντος (VUCA). Τα σχολεία όλων των βαθμίδων, και δη η ηγεσία αυτών, αντιμετώπισαν πρωτόγνωρες και απρόβλεπτες προκλήσεις, σε ένα πλαίσιο που έφερε συνεχείς εκπαιδευτικές και ψυχοκοινωνικές αλλαγές. Η παρούσα μελέτη, πλαισιώθηκε εννοιολογικά από το μοντέλο ηγεσίας της VUCA όπως αποδόθηκε από τους Barber (1992) και Bennis & Nanus (2003). Σκοπός της ποιοτικής πιλοτικής έρευνας, ήταν να διερευνήσει τις επιρροές που έφερε η πανδημία στον ρόλο των προϊσταμένων νηπιαγωγών κατά τα σχολικά έτη 2020-2021 και 2021-2022, υπό το πρίσμα της VUCA ηγεσίας. Παράλληλα, ανέδειξε τις εμπειρίες και αντιλήψεις αυτών. Για την ποιοτική ανάλυση, συλλέχθηκαν δεδομένα από 12 προϊσταμένους/ αμένες νηπιαγωγείου, μέσω ημιδομημένης συνένευξης. Το παραγόμενο ποιοτικό υλικό έδειξε ότι οι προϊστάμενοι/αμένες νηπιαγωγείου αντιλαμβάνονταν τον ρόλο τους κατά τη διάρκεια της πανδημίας ως πολύπλοκο, ασταθή, ασαφή, και αβέβαιο. Παρόλα αυτά, ανέδειξαν ικανότητες διατήρησης και ενίσχυσης των σχολικών αξιών, της συνεργασίας και της επικοινωνίας μεταξύ όλων των μελών του σχολείου ευθύνης τους. Επιπροσθέτως, ανέδειξαν ενσυναίσθηση και αμεσότητα, ανεξάρτητα από το φύλο τους. Τα ευρήματα συζητούνται για την αξιοποίησή τους στο πλαίσιο εκπαιδευτικών δράσεων σε περιόδους κρίσης και στην ανάπτυξη του επαγγελματικού ρόλου των σχολικών ηγετών.
Η επαγγελματική ταυτότητα του/της εκπαιδευτή/τριας της σύγχρονης ευάλωτης ετερότητας: δομικά στοιχεία, διαμόρφωση και ιδιαιτερότητες
Authors: Κεφαλά Αναστασία , Πλατσίδου Μαρία
Published: October 2024

Η επαγγελματική ταυτότητα των εκπαιδευτ(ικ)ών, και ιδιαίτερα όσων εργάζονται με ενήλικα μέλη ευπαθών κοινωνικών ομάδων, είναι μία διαρκώς εξελισσόμενη, ενεργητική και συνεχής διαδικασία, η οποία επηρεάζεται από τα προσωπικά και επαγγελματικά χαρακτηριστικά τους, καθώς και τις κοινωνικές, ιστορικές και πολιτισμικές συνθήκες όπου ζουν. Στη χώρα μας, δεν υπάρχουν εμπειρικά δεδομένα για τον τρόπο διαμόρφωσης της επαγγελματικής ταυτότητας των εκπαιδευτών/ριών ευπαθών κοινωνικών ομάδων και για τα δομικά της χαρακτηριστικά. Προκειμένου να διερευνηθούν τα παραπάνω, διεξήχθησαν συνεντεύξεις με 12 εκπαιδευτές/τριες, οι οποίες αναλύθηκαν με τη μέθοδο της Θεματικής Ανάλυσης. Τα αποτελέσματα έδειξαν ότι η επαγγελματική ταυτότητα των εν λόγω εκπαιδευτών/τριών αποτελείται από τέσσερα δομικά στοιχεία: (α) Τα κίνητρα να ασχοληθούν με την εκπαίδευση ευπαθών κοινωνικών ομάδων που πηγάζουν από την εσωτερική τους ανάγκη να παρέχουν βοήθεια σε κάθε άτομο που το έχει ανάγκη. (β) Την αυτό-αποτελεσματικότητά τους που επιτυγχάνεται όταν υπάρχει αποδοχή και σεβασμός στη διαφορετικότητα των εκπαιδευόμενών τους, ενσυναίσθηση, ευελιξία, ανοιχτή επικοινωνία με τους/τις εκπαιδευόμενους/ες και, τέλος, κατανόηση των ιδιαίτερων εκπαιδευτικών και κοινωνικών αναγκών τους. (γ) Η ανάληψη ευθυνών και η αίσθηση καθήκοντος απέναντι στην εκπαίδευση των ευπαθών κοινωνικών ομάδων ως αντιστάθμισμα της έλλειψης σχετικών προγραμμάτων από τους αρμόδιους φορείς. (δ) Τη δέσμευσή τους στην εκπαίδευση ευπαθών κοινωνικών ομάδων, όπως καταδεικνύει η επιμονή τους να παραμένουν στον χώρο, παρά τα εμπόδια και τις δυσκολίες. Τα ευρήματα αυτά συμφωνούν με αντίστοιχες διεθνείς έρευνες στη διαπολιτισμική εκπαίδευση και τη σύγχρονη ευάλωτη ετερότητα και μπορούν να χρησιμοποιηθούν για την παραγωγή γνώσης στην εκπαίδευση ενηλίκων μελών ευπαθών κοινωνικών ομάδων και τη δημιουργία κατάλληλων εκπαιδευτικών παρεμβάσεων.
Marine Heatwaves in the Mediterranean Sea: A Literature Review
Authors: DARMARAKI SOFIA , DENAXA DIMITRA , THEODOROU IASON , LIVANOU ELENI , RIGATOU DIONYSIA , RAITSOS E. DIONYSIOS , STAVRAKIDIS-ZACHOU ORESTIS , DIMARCHOPOULOU DONNA , BONINO GIULIA , McADAM RONAN , ORGANELLI EMANUELE , PITSOUNI ALEXIA , PARASYRIS ANTONIOS
Published: October 2024

Marine heatwaves (MHWs) are prolonged periods of exceptionally warm temperatures in the ocean, which have forced profound transformations in marine biodiversity and socio-economic systems globally over the last decades. The Mediterranean basin, a highly vulnerable area to climate change, has been particularly affected as a marginal sea, experiencing multifaceted changes due to these events. This literature review brings together a comprehensive list of interdisciplinary research on MHW evolution in the Mediterranean basin, from the past to the future, covering the most common driving mechanisms of MHWs, known feedbacks and impacts on various marine organisms and local economies. Aiming to enhance our understanding of Mediterranean MHWs across various dimensions, we further discuss ongoing challenges in their detection and characterization, highlighting the need to improve monitoring systems and forecasting capabilities using novel approaches in the basin and beyond.
Computational Study Protocol: Leveraging Synthetic Data to Validate a Benchmark Study for Differential Abundance Tests for 16S Microbiome Sequencing Data
Authors: Kohnert Eva , Kreutz Clemens
Published: October 2024

Background The utility of synthetic data in benchmark studies depends on its ability to closely mimic real-world conditions and to reproduce results obtained from experimental data. Here, we evaluate the performance of differential abundance tests for 16S metagenomic data. Building on the benchmark study by Nearing et al. (1), who assessed 14 differential abundance tests using 38 experimental datasets in a case-control design, we validate their findings by generating synthetic datasets that mimics the experimental data. We will employ statistical tests to rigorously assess the similarity between synthetic and experimental data and to validate the conclusions on the performance of these tests drawn by Nearing et al. (1). This protocol adheres to the SPIRIT guidelines and is, to our knowledge, the first of its kind in computational benchmark studies. Methods We replicate Nearing et al.’s (1) methodology, incorporating synthetic data simulated using two distinct tools, mirroring each of the 38 experimental datasets. Equivalence tests will be conducted on 43 data characteristics comparing synthetic and experimental data, complemented by principal component analysis for overall similarity assessment. The 14 differential abundance tests will be applied to both synthetic and experimental datasets, evaluating the consistency of significant feature identification and the number of significant features per tool. Correlation analysis and multiple regression will explore how differences between synthetic and experimental data characteristics may affect the results. Conclusions Synthetic data enables the validation of findings through controlled experiments. We assess how well synthetic data replicates experimental data, validate previous findings and delineate the strengths and limitations of synthetic data in benchmark studies. Moreover, to our knowledge this is the first computational benchmark study to systematically incorporate synthetic data for validating differential abundance methods while strictly adhering to a pre-specified study protocol following SPIRIT guidelines, contributing significantly to transparency, reproducibility, and unbiased research.
Mega corruptions in mega projects: Debating the dynamics of dam construction in Ethiopia
Authors: Ali Mohammed Awol
Published: October 2024

Background This study critically examines the dynamics of corruption within Ethiopia’s dam construction projects, focusing on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD the Gilgel Gibe series, and Genale Dawa. The research highlights how weak management practices, insufficient oversight, and centralized decision-making, resulting in contribute to inflated costs, project delays, and compromised construction quality. A comprehensive understanding of these issues is crucial for addressing the challenges that impede Ethiopia’s infrastructure development. Methods A qualitative research approach was employed, integrating both primary and secondary data sources. The study utilized four theoretical frameworks—Principal-Agent Theory, Rent-Seeking Theory, Institutional Theory, and Neo-Patrimonialism—to analyze the structural and behavioral factors enabling corruption in Ethiopia’s dam construction projects. Results The study found that corruption is largely driven by weak management practices, insufficient oversight, and centralized decision-making. These factors contribute to inflated project costs, significant delays, and compromised construction quality. The lack of transparency and inadequate monitoring exacerbate these issues, leading to inefficient resource use and undermining the projects’ intended benefits. Economic impacts include increased public debt and strained financial resources. Socially, corruption erodes public trust and adversely affects the communities involved. The findings also highlight how information asymmetry and misaligned incentives contribute to corruption, with weak governance structures and informal networks further exacerbating the problem. These issues lead to cost overruns, increased debt, and diminished public confidence, which negatively impacts development outcomes. Conclusions While corruption in Ethiopia’s dam construction projects poses significant challenges, it is not insurmountable. Strengthening legal and regulatory frameworks, enhancing institutional capacity, promoting community participation, and leveraging international cooperation are crucial for mitigating these risks. Recommendations include implementing e-procurement systems, establishing independent oversight bodies, and promoting transparency to ensure these mega projects achieve their intended economic and social benefits.
Awareness of infection care terms among outpatients and carers in a public health facility: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Useh Ebruphiyo Ruth , Mfeketo Bongeka , Mbengo Okuhle , Karangwa Innocent , Pennel Timothy , Boutall Adam , Maswime Salome , Pohl Linda , Charani Esmita , Mendelson Marc , Mbamalu Oluchi
Published: October 2024

Background As healthcare recipients and individuals affected by antimicrobial resistance (AMR), patients and their carers can be engaged in infection prevention and control (IPC) and antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) initiatives to manage AMR. To effectively participate in these initiatives, patients and carers need to understand general terms used in infection care. We explored awareness of commonly used infection-related terms among patients and carers in the surgical out-patient of a tertiary academic hospital. Methods Self-administered paper survey distributed among out-patients from August to September 2022. Categorical variables were analysed using Chi squared test. Significance was set as p-value of < 0.05. Content analysis identified terms commonly used by patients when talking about infections. Results Overall, 896 out of 1,269 respondents (response rate 70.6%), with a 1:3 male to female ratio were included. Most respondents were patients (75%), with a minimum of high school education (91.2%) and a surgical history (60.3%). Surgical wound infection was the most familiar term to participants. While many respondents had not heard of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (92.3%, n=754) or antimicrobial resistance (92.8%, n=755), significantly more were aware of the descriptions provided for these terms (13.7% and 33.0%, respectively; p<0.001). Participants considered antibiotic resistance to be a condition in which the body rejects, resists, or does not respond to antibiotics. Conclusions Findings show dissonance between patients’ awareness of and healthcare workers’ use of infection-care terms, highlighting the need for relatable and accessible terms in infection-care engagement initiatives. More than half of respondents acknowledged that patient engagement responsibility is everyone’s, underscoring the need for contextually fit and relevant communication strategies to advance patient engagement and infection awareness.
The genome sequence of the white-tailed eagle, Haliaeetus albicilla (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Pálsson Snæbjörn , Skarphéðinsson Kristinn Haukur , Heintz Julia , Quarfordt Pernilla , Strand Ann-Sofi , Bunikis Ignas , Pettersson Olga Vinnere ,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: October 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Haliaeetus albicilla (the white-tailed eagle; Chordata; Aves; Accipitriformes; Accipitridae). The genome sequence has a total length of 1,320.30 megabases. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 34 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z and W sex chromosomes. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 17,501 protein-coding genes.
Treatment of Alopecia Areata and Its Numerous Possibilities: A Literature Review
Authors: Wójcik Julia , Pamuła Kacper Wojciech , Cholewa Marcin , Szymańska Wiktoria Maria , Plewniok Julia , Partyka Maria , Jaglarz Karolina , Kuca Maciej , Janeczek Maksymilian , Uchto Adrian
Published: October 2024

Introduction and purpose: Alopecia Areata (AA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disorder characterized by non-scarring hair loss. While it is not life-threatening, it can lead to significant psychological distress. With advancements in modern medicine, new treatments, personalized therapies, and various therapeutic options have emerged. The aim of this study is to review and assess the efficacy, outcomes, and side effects of the available treatment options.
Material and methods : To compile this article “PUBMED” and “Google Scholar” databases were used with the great attention given to the articles not older than the year 2018
Brief description of the state of knowledge: There are various treatment options for Alopecia Areata (AA), beginning with topical treatments such as corticosteroids, prostaglandin analogs, minoxidil, and contact immunotherapy. In more severe cases, systemic therapy, biological therapy, or alternative treatments should be considered.
Results and conclusions: In the treatment of mild Alopecia Areata (AA), topical therapies are the preferred option due to their minimal side effects and easy to apply nature, with corticosteroids demonstrating the best outcomes, particularly when used in combination therapies. In patients with moderate or severe AA, systemic therapies are recommended, alone or in combination with topical treatment. In patients resistant to other forms of therapy, biological treatments or less commonly used methods should be considered.
Siła powieści – osiem dekad później
Authors: Korwin-Piotrowska Dorota
Published: October 2024

Tytuł tekstu nawiązuje do słynnej rozprawy Rogera Caillois z 1942 r. pt. Siła powieści (Gdańsk: Wydawnictwo UG, 2008; oryg. Puissances du roman. Paris: Editions du Sagittaire, 1942). Autorka artykułu próbuje odpowiedzieć na pytanie, dlaczego prognozy wyczerpania się tego gatunku się nie spełniły oraz jak można obecnie klasyfikować powieść, unikając przy tym zbyt wąskiego jej rozumienia. Nawiązuje przy tym zarówno do biologicznej taksonomii i kategorii kladu, jak i do zjawiska anamorfizmu w malarstwie. Rozważa też rolę powieściowej fikcji w ‘fikcjonalizacji życia’ i upowszechnieniu się kategorii narracji we współczesnej kulturze. Pokazuje przy tym – na przykładach z twórczości Olgi Tokarczuk (Empuzjon. Kraków: Wydawnictwo Literackie, 2022), Jacka Dukaja (Imperium chmur. Kraków: Wydawnictwo Literackie, 2020), a także Tomasza Różyckiego (Ijasz. Kraków: Wydawnictwo Literackie, 2021; Złodzieje żarówek. Wołowiec: Wydawnictwo Czarne, 2023) – jak nowoczesna polska powieść łączy różne sprzeczności, m.in. realizm i fantastykę, kulturę wysoką i popkulturę, powagę oraz zabawę.
Między Toruniem i Borysławiem
Authors: Durkalevych Viktoria
Published: October 2024

Posiłkując się metodologią geopoetyki, komparatystyki i antropologii kulturowej, autorka analizuje prozę Zdzisława Wróbla (1925–2007). Koncepcja autobiogeografii (Rybicka) oraz autotanatografii (Ubertowska) dają możliwość wpisania prozy Wróbla w nowe konteksty (re)interpretacyjne. W centrum zainteresowania znajdują się powieści i opowiadania, w których wyraźnie funkcjonują pewne schematy autobiogeograficzne i autotanatograficzne, semiotyczną oś których stanowi ryt przejścia i jego wymiary – egzystencjalny, przestrzenny, aksjologiczny. Badaczka pokazuje, że Wróbel eksperymentuje z różnymi tendencjami gatunkowymi powieści migracyjnej. Używając typologii Bogusława Bakuły, mówić można o zastosowaniu schematów kombatancko-repatriacyjnych (Dlaczego?), romantyczno-misjonarskich (Dlaczego?), socjo-historycznych (Szczeble, Inauguracja) i w specyficzny sposób ujętych westernowo-przygodowych (Eldorado). Badaczka zwraca też uwagę na to, że bohaterowie Wróbla borykają się z traumatycznym doświadczeniem powojennej rzeczywistości (oswajanie poniemieckiego) jak również z traumatycznym doświadczeniem przeszłości (świadkowie i ofiary Zagłady). Czują ogromną ulgę, gdy mogą z tego świadectwa się „wyspowiadać”.
Absolutny arcyarchetyp profesora
Authors: Skubaczewska-Pniewska Anna
Published: October 2024

Przedmiotem analizy są dwa utwory składające się na dorobek literacki Artura Przybysławskiego, profesora filozofii, wykładowcy języka tybetańskiego i tłumacza. W debiutanckim Panu Profesorze (2020) autor nakreślił karykaturalną biografię intelektualną fikcyjnego akademika o aluzyjnym nazwisku Zenon Ela, którego następnie uczynił narratorem Pana Profesora dziennika sekretnego (2022), tworząc w ten sposób unikalny przykład dylogii powieściowej. Pierwsze reakcje krytyki zdradzają niepewność, jaki gatunek reprezentują te utwory; recenzenci sięgają po takie określenia, jak (anty)biografia, (anty)dziennik, pamflet czy powieść pikarejska. Autorka artykułu przyjmuje, że w obu przypadkach mamy do czynienia z powieścią uniwersytecką, której struktura gatunkowa zakłada wielogatunkowość i intertekstualność. Gra z różnymi schematami gatunkowymi i różnymi motywami literackimi oraz filozoficznymi przybiera w powieściach uniwersyteckich Przybysławskiego formy gargantuiczne, co pozwala je opisać w kategoriach Bachtinowskich jako „karnawałowe laboratorium” wielogatunkowości i intertekstualności. Fakt, że głównym intertekstem jest Gargantua i Pantagruel F. Rablelais’go, koresponduje z przyjętą w artykule perspektywą interpretacyjną i wybraną metodą analizy.
Czy powieść (dziś) może być oryginalna i co miałoby to oznaczać?
Authors: Graf Paweł
Published: October 2024

Esej, we właściwym rozumieniu tego słowa, rozumiany zatem jako próba, badanie czy rozważanie, dotyczy problematyki oryginalności. Koncentruje się na powieści, stawiając pytanie o jej związek z oryginalnością. Jednocześnie stawia pytanie o oryginalność dziś, a zatem w rzeczywistości poststrukturalnej, która tytułowe pojęcie chciała odesłać do lamusa. W Rozpoznaniach teoretycznych zostały omówione ustalenia wybranych badaczy, wnoszących swoiste novum do problematyki związanej z oryginalnością. Najistotniejszy wydaje się fakt, że oryginalność to nowość, która inspiruje i uruchamia swe naśladownicze następstwa. Obok ocen pozytywnych zostają też przywołane opinie negujące wagę oryginalności. Fragmentowi pod tytułem Mądrość powieści patronuje Milan Kundera. Za Kunderą przywołane zostały przekonania o wyjątkowości powieści, również w obszarze jej oryginalności. Wreszcie, w Próbie zrozumienia oryginalności autor proponuje oryginalne, czynione w duchu fenomenologii, rozumienie tytułowego pojęcia.
„Olga Tokarczuk. Comparative Perspectives”, czyli kierunek ku dalszym porównaniom
Authors: Rytlewska Katarzyna
Published: October 2024

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Can Improvements to Mobile Internet Service Help Reduce Digital Inequality? An Empirical Analysis of Education and Overall Data Consumption
Authors: Nattamai Kannan Karthik Babu , Overby Eric , Narasimhan Sridhar
Published: October 2024

Quality internet access is critical to participating in contemporary society. Unfortunately, many households—particularly those of low socioeconomic status and/or those in rural areas—do not have quality internet access. Some have no access, whereas others are reliant on their mobile data plans for internet access (i.e., they are “smartphone dependent”). This generates inequality in internet access and use. Given the smartphone dependence of many disadvantaged households, we explore whether improvements to mobile internet service can help reduce digital inequality. We focus on a specific improvement: access to unlimited mobile data. For access to unlimited data to help reduce digital inequality, it must generate larger data consumption increases for disadvantaged households than for advantaged ones, including for data likely to enhance welfare, such as online education content. It is not obvious that this will be the case. Accordingly, we use detailed subscriber-level data from a major telecommunications company to examine changes in the consumption of education and other content after subscribers switch to unlimited mobile data plans. We find that although all subscribers increase their consumption, the increases are significantly larger for disadvantaged subscribers, both for overall content and for education content. This is an important finding given that identifying programs that generate disproportionate data consumption increases for disadvantaged households—including for education and other “enhancing” content—is a necessary step for reducing digital inequality.

This paper was accepted by Hemant Bhargava, information systems.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.03770 .
Technological advancements in endoscopy and their impact on gastrointestinal nursing
Authors: Hill Barry , Wamburu Amsale , Clarke Fiona
Published: October 2024

Technological advancements in endoscopy have significantly transformed the landscape of gastrointestinal (GI) nursing. This article explores the latest innovations in endoscopic techniques, such as high-resolution imaging, endoscopic ultrasound and therapeutic procedures. It examines the implications of these advancements for GI nursing practice, focusing on the roles and responsibilities of nurses in pre-procedural, intra-procedural and post-procedural care. The importance of continuous education and specialised training for GI nurses is also discussed. Recommendations are provided to enhance nursing practices in endoscopy settings, ensuring optimal patient care and safety.
Transanal irrigation: a review of indications, key assessments, benefits, contraindications, complications, efficacy and safety
Authors: Alsararatee Hasan
Published: October 2024

Transanal irrigation (TAI) is a therapeutic procedure designed to manage chronic bowel dysfunction, including constipation and faecal incontinence, particularly in individuals with neurogenic bowel dysfunction. TAI offers symptom relief and improves quality of life by providing autonomy in bowel management. This article explores the benefits, clinical indications and contraindications of TAI. The article also emphasises the importance of thorough patient assessments before initiating TAI, such as evaluating bowel function, manual dexterity and motivation. Furthermore, the review discusses the role of structured education programmes in ensuring long-term adherence and safety, particularly within the first 3 months. In addition, it covers the complications associated with TAI, such as bowel perforation and autonomic dysreflexia, and offers management strategies. Finally, the review outlines the conditions under which TAI should be discontinued and provides guidance on ensuring patient safety throughout the treatment.
Nursing poster selection: recent research and review
Authors: Burch Jennie
Published: October 2024

Jennie Burch reviews three notable poster submissions from the recent Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland conference, and details their contributions to gastrointestinal nursing research.
The 4th World Congress of GI Endoscopy, ENDO 2024, was a great success
Authors:   World Endoscopy Organization office
Published: October 2024

The World Endoscopy Organization recaps ENDO 2024, highlighting the range of educational opportunities on offer and the work conducted by its international delegates and presenters.
Our first Royal College of Nursing Congress as Gastrointestinal Forum Committee members
Authors: Avery Pearl , Gower Lisa
Published: October 2024

Pearl Avery and Lisa Gower write about their experience of their first RCN Congress in Wales 2024. Pearl and Lisa went to Newport this year to represent the Gastrointestinal Forum at the RCN Congress; this was Pearl's first attendance in 23 years of membership. Although neither attended for the entire event, both discuss their views and enjoyment of the experience.
Molecular Docking Studies and Antibacterial Evaluation of Urtica massaica Leaves
Authors: Boddupalli Bindu Madhavi , Ramani Ramalingam , Owiti Elizabeth , Nelson Elias , Mungoma Michael
Published: October 2024

Bacterial resistance is at its peak challenging humankind and researchers dealing with microorganisms. To prevent further risk due to microbial infections, there is an emergency to solve this problem. The practice of using herbs in treating diseases is from ancient years, especially in African countries with rich natural remedies resources. Urtica Massaica from the Urticaceae family is abundantly found in Africa. Methanolic extract of leaf powder was tested against resistant microorganisms (Acinetobacter baumannii and MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). Ciprofloxacin was used as the standard antibacterial drug. Molecular docking studies were performed for the selected flavonoids of the plant from literature against penicillin-binding protein 2a and DNA gyrase subunit B. The results from the antimicrobial studies indicated the zone of inhibitions ranging from 6±0.00 mm to 11.67±0.33 mm. Molecular docking studies revealed the ability of Urtica flavonoids to bind with the selected target receptors. Kaempferol was found to have a higher docking score with a less binding energy of -11.25kCal/Mol and 9.83Kcal/Mol against PBP2a and DNA gyrase respectively. The results of the current study strongly indicate the need for further studies involving the isolation of pure compounds and their use against resistant bacteria.