The study presents a geomorphological overview of Greece at a 1:1,000,000 scale, marking the first national cartographic synthesis effort to interpret geological and geomorphological factors shaping the country's landscape. The geomorphological map was developed through a literature review of prior studies at varying scales and semi-automated GIS techniques. High-resolution topographic data and 1:50,000 geological maps were integrated into a spatial geodatabase. Secondary layers, including a hillshade map, slope-aspect map, and red relief image map, were created and combined with Google Earth imagery to delineate landforms. These were categorized by primary formative processes into structural, fluvial, gravity-induced, coastal, karst, volcanic, glacial and periglacial. Additional maps and tables were produced, detailing topographic parameters, geotectonic setting, and climatic regime. The results highlight Greece's diverse geomorphological environments, shaped by active tectonics and surface processes. The map represents recent geomorphological advancements and serves as a management tool for stakeholders and a reference for interdisciplinary research.

The present study investigates the formation and development of a coastal barrier associated with the recent evolution of the beach/dune system of the Kyparissiakos Gulf (SE Ionian Sea, central Mediterranean Sea) during the late phase of the Holocene (Flandrian) transgression. The study is based on the application of combined geophysical (ERT: Electrical Resistivity Tomography; GPR: Ground Penetrating Radar) and geotechnical (CPT: Cone Penetration Test; boreholes) techniques, supported by sedimentological (granulometric, mineralogical, palaeontological) analyses. According to the interpretation of the collected and processed data, the formation of the coastal barrier started during the transition between the fast and slow phase of the sea level rise (i.e. 6-7 ka BP), which coincides with an increased fluvial sediment inflow induced by the prevailing wetter climatic conditions (8000 - 3700 BP). The development of the coastal barrier most likely involves a progradational beach, associated with the formation of dunes that follow aggradational phases of coastal barrier and beach evolution. Based on 14C dating, the formation of the two younger dune ridges took place no earlier than 350 and 950 cal yr BP, respectively.

Der aktuellste Text des griechischen Neuen Testaments mit einem leicht zugänglichen textkritischen Apparat. Nach über zehn Jahren intensiver Vorbereitung erscheint jetzt eine Neuauflage des UBS Greek New Testament (6. Auflage).  Sie bietet den aktuellsten griechischen Text mit den Textänderungen der Bände der Editio Critica Maior zur Apostelgeschichte (2017), dem Markusevangelium (2021) und der Offenbarung (2025). So unterscheidet sich der Text an weit über 100 Stellen vom Text der 5. Auflage.  Der Text ist identisch mit dem der 29. Auflage des Novum Testamentum Graece ("Nestle-Aland"), die für 2026 in Vorbereitung ist.  Der Apparat umfasst klar strukturierte Einträge zu allen wichtigen Varianten des Textes. Bei der Auswahl der Stellen war die Frage nach der Relevanz für Übersetzung und Auslegung des Textes leitend. Auch die Bedeutung des sog. Textus Receptus wurde gegenüber früheren Auflagen verstärkt berücksichtigt. Die Auswahl der Handschriften wurde gegenüber der 5. Auflage zum einen auf die wichtigsten Zeugen fokussiert, zum andern durch neue Handschriften (Papyri 128 bis 141) ergänzt. Eine gut lesbare Einführung (auf Englisch) führt zu der Ausgabe hin.  Insgesamt ist dieses Werk dadurch besser als je geeignet für den Einstieg in die exegetische und textkritische Arbeit am Neuen Testament in seiner Originalsprache.  Es wird von einem internationalen und interkonfessionellen Gremium herausgegeben, das auch für NA29 verantwortlich ist und eng mit dem Institut für Neutestamentliche Textforschung zusammenarbeitet: Hugh Houghton, Christos Karakolis, David Parker, Stephen Pisano, Holger Strutwolf, David Trobisch und Klaus Wachtel. 

Flash floods have been responsible for some of the most catastrophic events globally. The extensive range of effects and the varying severity of impacts present significant challenges in accurately understanding the damage caused by a flood event, thereby hindering our capacity to predict future consequences. When evaluating flood impacts and their severity, most existing approaches rely on qualitative descriptions (e.g., major, catastrophic, etc.) or examine the impacts from a single perspective or discipline, such as economic losses. In this study, the Flash Flood Impact Severity Scale (FFISS) is employed to evaluate, map, and categorize the impacts of two flash floods that occurred in the Lilas River in Greece in 2009 and 2020. The goal of this application is to analyze the varying severity levels and how one flood event can influence the impacts of a subsequent event. The methodology involved extensive fieldwork, including the collection of ground-based and aerial observations using UAV technology to document the impacts. These observations were subsequently georeferenced, followed by applying the Flash Flood Impact Severity Scale (FFISS) and creating detailed maps to assess and evaluate the severity of impacts associated with the two flood events. The results indicate that, despite the higher water levels during the second flood, areas previously affected show lower severity values. This reduction is attributed to the community’s gradual adaptation, improvements in infrastructure, and significant local widening of the river channel. Conversely, newly flooded areas during the second event exhibit high severity levels. Overall, applying the FFISS reveals spatial patterns of impact severity, offering insights into the local nature of floods while suggesting a potential reduction in overall risk during the post-flood period.

This special issue of the journal Neusis focuses on the role of prediction in scientific practice and examines the following questions: How has the role and status of prediction changed historically? How is the gap between theory and prediction of specific phenomena bridged? What is considered a valid and successful prediction in different areas of the natural sciences?

Cellular senescence, a state of permanent cell cycle arrest, recapitulates the aging process at the cellular level. It can be triggered by intrinsic or extrinsic factors including telomere shortening (replicative senescence) and in response to various types of stresses such as oncogenic stress (oncogene-induced senescence, OIS). Senescence has been detected in vitro and in premalignant lesions in mice and humans expressing mutant oncogenes. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the posttranscriptional level, and have been involved in both replicative senescence and OIS. Several methods have been used to identify miRNAs and compare their expression in normal versus oncogene-induced senescent cells, as well as to analyze their role and their targets in senescence. Here, we describe several methods that can be employed to identify miRNAs in cells undergoing OIS, including miRNA-sequencing, RT-qPCR-based detection and quantification of miRNAs and Nanostring miRNA analysis (nCounter miRNA Expression Assay). Moreover, we perform a meta-analysis of studies employing the above methodologies, pinpoint miRNAs with consistent expression changes across senescence models, and predict their target genes and the pathways in which they partake.

(1) Background: The present study examines the effects of fire on the ecosystem services of forest ecosystems in Greece. Being a Mediterranean country, Greece has been affected by fires of increasing intensity and frequency in recent years; (2) Methods: Information was extracted from 56 articles published in the period January 1997–March 2024 that were selected after an extensive literature review; (3) Results: An increasing trend in the number of published articles over time was observed. Studies on regulating and maintenance services prevailed. The majority of studies reported on thermo-Mediterranean ecosystems, with Pinus halepensis Mill forests being the most common ecosystems affected by fires. The effects of fire were primarily negative on provisioning and cultural services, as well as on the control of erosion rates, regulation of the hydrologic cycle, atmospheric composition, and climate regulation. Most effects on plant diversity were found to be positive, while positive and neutral effects were also recorded for pollination. The most pronounced negative or positive effects were noted for the first two years after the fire. The spatial mapping of the results showed that the areas most affected by the fires in Greece are Eastern Attica, Euboea, Western Attica, and most regional units of the Peloponnese; (4) Conclusions: In the era of climate change and changing fire regimes in the Mediterranean, there is a need to further research the impact of fire on ecosystem services, as this will help in the better protection and management of the most vulnerable forest ecosystems.

The accurate representation of mixed-phase monsoon clouds and their phase distribution is of great importance for numerical models used to predict monsoon rainfall. Therefore, it is essential for these models to correctly capture the phase fraction of clouds, which includes the proportions of liquid and ice. Ice particle formation in clouds occurs through primary ice production and secondary ice production (SIP). Most weather and climate models tend to overlook secondary SIP mechanisms, often only including rime-splintering. This oversight can introduce biases in the phase partitioning of mixed-phase clouds and monsoon rainfall predictions. In this study, we investigate the roles of three major SIP mechanisms: Hallett-Mossop (HM), droplet shattering (DS), and ice-ice collision (IIC) in mixed-phase monsoon clouds. This investigation is the first of its kind and was conducted using high-resolution simulations of mixed-phase convective clouds observed during the fourth phase of the Cloud Aerosol Interaction and Precipitation Enhancement Experiment (CAIPEEX) over a rain shadow region of India. The default cloud microphysical scheme, which originally included only the HM process, was modified to incorporate additional SIP mechanisms such as DS and IIC. The simulated cloud parameters, including liquid and ice water content and ice number concentration, showed good agreement with airborne measurements. Our findings indicate that IIC is the predominant SIP mechanism, contributing 90 % to the total ice production through SIP. The inclusion of the three SIP mechanisms resulted in an enhancement of ice concentration by three to four orders of magnitude at temperatures warmer than -20 °C. SIP significantly influenced various cloud parameters between 0 to −20 °C, including total ice number concentration, ice crystal mass, rimed mass, liquid water content, and phase fraction. It also influenced the Ice Water Path (IWP), Liquid Water Path (LWP), and cloud top temperature. The rates of several mixed-phase processes were also affected by the SIP mechanisms. Overall, SIP led to a 15 % reduction in accumulated surface precipitation.

The present paper deals with the combined application of near-surface geophysical techniques in a sustainable agriculture project. Their application is focused on the identification of any subsurface water in the context of sustainable water management for the selected living hub, located in the semi-arid area of Agios Georgios-Mandra Attiki. The objective of the multidisciplinary geophysical study was to determine the depth of the bedrock and the thickness of the post-Alpine deposits. In addition, the subsurface karstification and the possible aquifer presence were examined. For that reason, the following techniques were implemented: Electrical Resistivity Tomography, Seismic Refraction Tomography, Ground-Penetrating Radar, and Very-Low Frequency electromagnetic technique. The study was also supported by drone LiDAR usage. The investigation revealed several hydrogeological characteristics of the area. The thickness of the post-Alpine sediments is almost 3 m. However, no shallow aquiferous systems have been developed in this formation, as indicated by their relatively high resistivity values (100–1000 Ohm.m). Furthermore, the alpine bedrock exhibits extensive karstification, facilitated by the development of fracture zones. The absence of an underlying impermeable layer prevented the development of aquiferous zones, at least up to a depth of 100 m.

Flash floods have been the cause of some of the most devastating events worldwide. The wide diversity of the effects, as well as the variety in the severity of the impacts, lead to major obstacles in obtaining a realistic understanding of the damages caused by a flood event, thus hampering at the same time our ability to predict future impacts. In assessing flood impacts and their severity, most existing methods use a qualitative characterization (e.g., major, catastrophic, etc.) or view the impacts from a single viewpoint or discipline (e.g., economic losses). In this study, we apply the Flash Flood Impact Severity Scale (FFISS) to assess, map, and classify the impacts of two flash floods from the Lilas River in Greece in 2009 and 2020. This application aims to discuss the different severity levels in terms of how one flood can affect the impacts of the next event. The methodology encompasses comprehensive field research, including the collection of ground-based and aerial observations utilizing UAV technology to document the impacts. These observations are subsequently georeferenced, followed by application of the Flash Flood Impact Severity Scale (FFISS) and generation of detailed maps to assess and evaluate the severity of the impacts associated with the two flood events. The results show that despite the higher water stage of the second flood, the impacts in previously hit areas indicate lower severity values, attributed to the gradual adaptation of the community and its infrastructure, as well as significant local widening of the river channel. On the contrary, high severity remains an issue in newly flooded areas during the second event. Overall, the application of the FFISS can show the spatial patterns of severity impacts, providing insights into the nature of floods locally but also indicating a potential reduction in the overall risk in the post-flood period.

Understanding the subsurface structural framework of mines is critical for ensuring operational safety. Especially in room and pillar marble quarries, where extraction strategies need continuous optimization and reorientation and since benching creates rooms with considerable heights, ensuring structural stability is crucial for the safety of personnel and equipment. This study presents a novel application of ground-based Li-DAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology for high-resolution structural mapping within an active marble quarry. By deploying terrestrial laser scanning across key excavation galleries, we generated detailed 3D point clouds that reveal hidden discontinuities and fault systems with a non-invasive, rapid, and precise methodology, capable for representing de-tailed three-dimensional models of the quarry interiors. We used a Leica P50 scanner for acquiring point data in this marble quarry, covering an area of 8,800 m2. A volume of 46,900 m3 was mapped in high detail by setting up 9 bases, accompanied with the measurement of 12 ground control points (GCPs), which were utilized for the transform of al-most 960 million points into real coordinates.The resulting point cloud data were processed using ad-vanced geospatial software to generate 3D models and ex-tract structural features such as joints, faults, bedding planes, and correlate them with existing geological models, which were derived from classical surface mapping of outcrops. The analysis revealed several previously undocumented sub-surface structures that have direct implications for resource estimation, selection of support measures and operational planning. The high spatial resolution of LiDAR enabled the identification of subtle features that are typically missed by conventional surveying techniques.This study demonstrates that ground-based LiDAR is a pow-erful tool for subsurface structural mapping in marble quar-rying, offering significant advantages in terms of accuracy, safety, and efficiency.

The utilization of hybrid plasmonic metal/semiconductor materials for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) has emerged as a promising approach towards the development of advanced SERS substrates in terms of sensitivity{,} uniformity{,} stability{,} and reusability{,} based on the synergy of the powerful electromagnetic mechanism with the chemical amplification and functionality of semiconductor supports. In this work{,} co-assembled WO3/TiO2 inverse opal films were utilized as photonic crystal scaffolds of plasmonic Ag nanoparticles in order to optimally combine plasmonic{,} charge transfer and slow photon effects for ultrasensitive{,} recyclable SERS sensing. Compositional and photonic band gap engineering of the Ag-decorated WO3/TiO2 photonic crystal substrates provided insight to the interplay of plasmonic enhancement assisted by slow light propagation in the inverse opal structure and charge transfer between the analyte and the heterostructured substrate. Highly sensitive detection of 4-mercaptobenzoic acid as a non-resonant analyte was achieved down to 10−13 M for the optimal Ag–WO3/TiO2 substrate with good uniformity and excellent recyclability due to its enhanced photocatalytic self-cleaning capacity. Comparative performance tests along with photoelectrochemical evaluation showed a significant contribution of cascade electron transfer from plasmonic Ag to the staggered WO3/TiO2 heterojunctions and the analyte{,} providing an additional charge transfer pathway to promote the substrate-to-molecule interaction for the design of efficient and versatile metal/metal oxide SERS platforms.

The present paper deals with an inhabited, creeping mountainous landmass with profound surface deformation that affects the local community. The scope of the paper is to gather surficial and subsurface information in order to understand the parameters of this creeping mass, which is usually affected by several parameters, such as its geometry, subsurface water, and shear zone. Therefore, a combined aerial and surface investigation has been conducted. The aerial investigation involves UAV’s LiDAR acquisition for the terrain model and a comparison of historical aerial photographs for land use changes. The multi-technique surface investigation included resistivity (ERT) and seismic (SRT, MASW) measurements and density determination of geological formations. This combination of methods proved to be fruitful since several aspects of the landslide were clarified, such as water flow paths, the internal geological structure of the creeping mass, and its geometrical extent. The depth of the shear zone of the creeping mass is delineated at the first five to ten meters from the surface, especially from the difference in diachronic resistivity change.

This prospective study was conducted in four public tertiary hospitals in Greece. Consecutive cardiac patients (AMI or TAVI) (n=912) were registered and followed up at the point of discharge six months and 12 months after discharge. In case of AMI patients [N=610, mean age=63 (SD=11.8), 78.8% men, 48.8% STEMI], the Heart-QoL score was found 2.33 (SD=0.5) at the point of discharge, 2.61 (SD=0.31) six months after discharge and 2.68 (SD=0.3) twelve months after discharge. In case of TAVI patients [N=302, mean age=81 (SD=5), 50.7% men], the Heart-QoL score was found 1.54 (SD=0.38) at the point of discharge and 2.02 (SD=0.46) six months after discharge. Based on the results of the Danish Heart PREMs instrument (0-3), the majority of patients stated positive experiences during the cycle of care. However, positive experiences regarding the information they received about the psychosocial impact of cardiac issues on their lives (mean and organization (mean 1.03, SD =0.33 for AMI and 1.1, SD=0.35 for TAVI patients), were significantly limited. Results underline the necessity for in depth information of cardiac patients about the psychosocial effects of the disease on their lives and more effective coordination of healthcare.

An isotype heterojunction n+-ZnO/n-Si photodetector is developed, showing adjustable wavelength-selective operation at self-powered conditions. Without an external bias voltage, the device can operate either as a broadband ultraviolet-visible-near-infrared (UV-vis-NIR) or as a NIR-only photodetector. This is achieved by careful engineering of the relative carrier concentrations of the constituting materials, i.e., ZnO and silicon, which in turn affects the built-in potential barrier of the n+-n junction. In addition to this self-powered behavior, the photodetector can be tuned to either broadband or NIR operation by the application of an external bias voltage, regardless of carrier concentrations. At negative bias, it demonstrates UV-vis-NIR photodetection, while at positive bias, NIR photodetection for any ratio of ZnO/Si carrier concentrations investigated here.

Uncontrolled proliferation, resistance to apoptosis, inability to maintain genome integrity, and, recently, epigenetic reprogramming are all hallmarks of cancer. A number of gene expression and cell signaling networks control these-often-interconnected processes, while the study of their deregulation is in the forefront of cancer research for decades. Here we present data from cells and patients indicating that KMT2C, one of the most frequently mutated proteins in solid malignancies, is involved in all these processes. Its loss, a bad prognosis marker in bladder cancer, is associated with activation of the PI3K/PDK/AKT oncogenic/antiapoptotic axis, and tolerance to DNA damage during cell cycle progression. On the other hand, these cells suffer from mitotic stress that can be therapeutically exploited. Treatment with a PLK1 inhibitor showed high efficacy in vivo, and was associated with mitotic catastrophe and cellular senescence, providing evidence that targeting genes that promote mitotic progression could be a promising therapeutic approach in the subset of tumors with KMT2C loss.

RESUMENCon el objetivo de facilitar la labor de los docentes de ELE, nos proponemos indagarsobre la actividad ortográfica desde una perspectiva cognitiva, con el propósito decomprender los procesos mentales implicados y examinar si el nivel lingüístico enLE influye en dichos procesos. Para ello, se realizó un estudio con 142 aprendicesgriegos de ELE, clasificados en niveles lingüísticos (A, B y C). Estos participantesrealizaron una prueba de disponibilidad léxica, que permite acceder al proceso derecuperación de la forma ortográfica de las palabras más disponibles para ellos.Primero, se identificaron los errores ortográficos en las respuestas, tanto en laacentuación como en las letras. Posteriormente, se analizaron los datos desde unaperspectiva cuantitativa y cualitativa. El análisis cuantitativo indica que, alaumentar el nivel lingüístico, disminuye la cantidad de palabras con erroresortográficos. Sin embargo, los errores dentro de las palabras incorrectas semantienen constantes, lo que indica que las palabras con errores contienen másfallos internos. En relación con los errores de acentuación, estos persisten en todoslos niveles lingüísticos. El análisis cualitativo de los datos revela que muchoserrores de acentuación ocurren en palabras frecuentes y comunes que deberían serfáciles de escribir correctamente. En cuanto a los errores en las letras, estáninfluenciados por las otras LE que los aprendices conocen. Dichos resultadosrevelan que los participantes tienden a recuperar la forma ortográfica de laspalabras directamente a través de la vía léxica en lugar de seguir la vía fonológica.Estos hallazgos permiten proponer el tratamiento didáctico adecuado para lasdificultades ortográficas de los aprendices griegos de ELE.

Landslides represent a persistent hazard in Mediterranean en-vironments, necessitating reliable monitoring techniques for risk assessment. Recent advancements in 3D close-range re-mote sensing, particularly through the integration of Un-manned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS), have enhanced our ability to capture surface changes. Object-based analysis offers a robust framework for seg-menting and classifying landslide features from high-resolution spatial data, improving the detection and under-standing of landslide processes and rockfall dynamics be-yond traditional pixel-based methods. This work describes the use of repeated UAS and TLS surveys at several active landslide and rockfall sites, referring to the challenges that arose and the solutions that were provided. Point clouds were processed to generate high-resolution digital elevation models (DEMs), and object-based techniques were applied for sys-tematic segmentation and classification of landslide objects. Data fusion was performed following rigorous co-registration procedures, drawing on ground control points to align da-tasets from different sensors. Spatial and geomorphological attributes were extracted from classified objects for temporal change detection and feature analysis. UAS-derived models demonstrated efficient coverage and high surface detail, while TLS data provided increased point density and vertical accuracy in targeted sectors. Object-based analysis enabled the identification and delineation of distinct landslide fea-tures, such as scarps, displaced blocks, and accumulation zones, with improved accuracy compared to manual delinea-tion. The combined UAS-TLS approach reduced data gaps and enhanced the representativeness of classified objects. The segmentation process, however, was sensitive to vegeta-tion cover and point density variations, requiring parameter optimization for each dataset. Integrating advanced data analysis with fused UAS-TLS datasets improved the identifi-cation and monitoring of morphological changes, facilitating a more process-based understanding of landslide and rockfall dynamics. The object-based framework allowed for con-sistent feature extraction across temporal sequences, support-ing detailed change analysis and the recognition of geomor-phological evolution patterns. Challenges included managing data heterogeneity and ensuring segmentation reliability across varying surface conditions. This study demonstrates that combining object-based analysis with multi-sensor 3D data acquisition enhances landslide and rockfall feature de-tection and temporal analysis, providing a scientific basis for more effective landslide hazard assessment and management in Mediterranean terrains.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether increased body mass index (BMI) and biochemical and lifestyle parameters linked to obesity and smoke exposure disrupt immune responses of children and adolescents following vaccination with the mRNA BNT162b2 vaccine. METHODS: A prospective, single-center, cohort study was conducted. Participants were assigned to receive two doses of the mRNA vaccine. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and neutralizing antibodies (AB) were measured before vaccination (T0) and 14 days after the second dose (T1). BMI and biochemical parameters were evaluated at T0. A questionnaire on lifestyle characteristics was filled in. RESULTS: IgG optical density (OD) ratio at T1 was lower in the overweight-obese group regardless of COVID-19 disease positive history [p = 0.028 for the seronegative group, p = 0.032 for the seropositive group]. Neutralizing AB were lower in overweight-obese participants in the seronegative group at T1 [p = 0.008]. HDL, fasting glucose/insulin ratio (FGIR), C-reactive protein (CRP), HBA1c, uric acid, and smoke exposure were significantly correlated with BMI [p = 0.006, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.006, p = 0.009, p < 0.001, respectively]. The main biochemical parameters that were inversely correlated with IgG and neutralizing AB titers at T1 were uric acid [p = 0.018, p = 0.002], FGIR [p = 0.001, p = 0.008] and HBA1C [p = 0.027, p = 0.038], while smoke exposure negatively affected the humoral immune responses at T0 in the convalescent group [p = 0.004, p = 0.005]. CONCLUSIONS: Current data suggests that uric acid, insulin resistance (IR), and smoke exposure could adversely affect the immune responses in overweight-obese vaccinated children, highlighting the need for actions to enhance the protection of this particular subgroup.

This study explores the lived experiences of Greek emerging adults during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on perceived psychoemotional and social impacts and future outlooks. Using a qualitative longitudinal approach, we conducted two timeframes: March 2020 and June 2021, with thirty-four participants (M = 21.14 years old) initially responding to online open-ended questions, followed by in-depth interviews with six. Thematic analysis identified two main themes: ‘emotional shifts’ and ‘transitioning to adulthood’. Participants expressed a range of emotions, including sadness and nostalgia, leading to feelings of loneliness from being separated from loved ones. Throughout both timeframes, they reported fear and anxiety about contracting or spreading the virus. However, they also recognised positive changes during the first lockdown, such as personal growth and a deeper appreciation for life, which translated into ‘relational clearings’ during the second lockdown. Additionally, participants acknowledged their increased responsibility to comply with restrictions and formulated practical future plans reflecting a ‘here-and-now’ mindset. Our findings are discussed in relation to existing literature.

BACKGROUND: While long coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is linked to prolonged vascular dysfunction in adults, research in children remains poor. In this study, we assessed vascular health in children infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 about 6.8 months postinfection, comparing them with healthy controls. METHODS: Two hundred twenty-three children were assessed and divided into group 1, which included children with a positive disease history and group 2, which consisted of healthy controls. Anthropometric measurements, lipid profile, biomarkers (interleukin-6, C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and soluble intracellular adhesion molecule) and long COVID symptoms were assessed, along with pulse wave velocity (PWV) measurements and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) to evaluate aortic stiffness. RESULTS: Children in group 1 were older (mean age: 10.8 +/- 3.2 years vs. 8.5 +/- 2.8 years, P < 0.001) and had higher body mass index (20.3 +/- 5.6 kg/m 2 vs. 18.4 +/- 3.5 kg/m 2 , P < 0.001). PWV was increased in group 1 (5.02 +/- 0.7 m/s vs. 4.7 +/- 0.6, P < 0.001). However, vascular differences between the groups disappeared after adjusting for age, body mass index, and blood pressure. Soluble intracellular adhesion molecule-1 levels were elevated in children with a history of moderate/severe COVID-19 infection compared with controls (555.8 +/- 113.2 ng/mL vs. 428 +/- 42.6 ng/mL, P < 0.001). Cholesterol levels, inflammatory markers and cIMT were comparable between groups. Long COVID symptoms were reported mainly by participants of group 1 [34 (23.6%) vs. 3 (3.8%), P < 0.001]. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates insights into the long-term effects of COVID-19 infection in children. Evidence of endothelial activation without structural arterial changes was found. Persistent inflammation postinfection was absent, yet approximately one-quarter of the participants experienced long COVID symptoms, indicating potential differences in the pathophysiology of postacute COVID-19 infection in childhood.

Geoethics emphasizes responsible human interaction with the Earth, promoting ethical practices in the geosciences to ensure sustainability for current and future generations. UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGps) are designated areas that support sustainable development by integrating geoconservation, geoeducation, and community engagement, thereby raising awareness of geological heritage. This quantitative study employed an online questionnaire (n = 798) to assess geoethical awareness among residents of all nine Hellenic UGGps, with the aim of profiling environmental engagement and perceptions. The results indicate a generally high level of geoethical awareness, with Sitia UGGp exhibiting the highest average mean score (M− = 8.98, SD− = 1.34), reflecting strong community support and effective outreach efforts. In contrast, Lavreotiki UGGp (M− = 8.48, SD− = 1.15) and Psiloritis UGGp (M− = 8.33, SD− = 1.36) scored lower in areas such as community engagement and geotourism, suggesting opportunities for targeted improvement. Regional differences suggest that management, visibility, and local context significantly influence public perceptions. Cluster analysis identified four respondent profiles: (a) highly engaged environmental stewards (28.7%), (b) supportive but selective advocates (40.5%), (c) moderately indifferent participants (26.9%), and (d) disengaged or critical respondents (3.9%). Demographic factors such as age, residence, prior visits to Hellenic UGGps, and education significantly differentiated these groups. Mapping geoethical awareness provides a valuable tool for assessing societal benefits and enhancing the governance of UGGps. Overall, the findings underscore the need to shift from an anthropocentric to a more geocentric worldview that prioritizes the well-being of both humanity and Earth’s systems.

The geotectonic units of the External Hellenides Carbonate Platform are characterized by continuous sedimentation from the Triassic onward. This was terminated by widespread synorogenic flysch sequences of great thicknesses, deposited in foreland basins during the collision stage extending from the Paleogene up to Pliocene in the most external parts. A comprehensive dataset concerning the synorogenic Messinian-Pliocene locations of the Hellenic territory and the available published calcareous nannofossil biostratigraphic results, has been constructed, aiming to standardize the available data and provide realistic biochronologic estimations, according to the available and updated astrobiochronological approaches (e.g., Lourens et al., 2004; Raffi et al., 2006; Backman et al., 2012; Agnini et al., 2017). In addition, a series of new locations with their unpublished calcareous nannofossil biostratigraphic determinations (e.g., Triantaphyllou, 2017; Triantaphyllou et al., 2025), are incorporated to the dataset, providing a useful framework for geodynamic interpretations and correlations in the eastern Mediterranean and beyond. The geographical distribution of all the existing data is presented in a series of geological maps arranged according to each nannofossil biozone. The presented dataset contributes to a better understanding of the spatiotemporal impact on biostratigraphic assignments of the different geological-geotectonic origin deposits, practically dating the most recent evolution stages of the Hellenic arc, as also of the factors limiting the distribution and controlling the presence of the widely used nannofossil biostratigraphic indices in the eastern Mediterranean realm. Most of the micropaleontological/geological material associated with the constructed nannofossil biostratigraphy dataset, is already incorporated into the Micropaleontology Collection at the Laboratory of Historical Geology and Biogeosciences, NKUA.

OBJECTIVES: Αn HIV-1 outbreak was identified among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Thessaloniki, Greece, during 2019-2021. We aimed to investigate the characteristics of this outbreak by means of molecular epidemiology. METHODS: We analysed 57 sequences from PWID sampled in Thessaloniki during 2019-2023. Phylogenetic trees were inferred using all subtype A sequences from PWID sampled since 1999 in Greece and reference sequences (n=4824). Phylodynamic analysis was performed using the Bayesian birth-death skyline serial model. RESULTS: Most of the 57 study sequences belonged to sub-subtypes A6 (49, 86%) and A1 (4, 7%). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that two (50%) A1 sequences clustered together and 47 (95.9%) A6 sequences fell within three PWID-specific phylogenetic clusters. The 99.6% and 77.9% of pairwise genetic distances within the largest and second largest PWID clusters were lower than 0.015 substitutions/site. Using a more stringent threshold (0.0015 substitutions/site), we identified five networks of sequences from PWID infected within 1 year. The effective reproduction number (R(e)) started to increase at the beginning of 2019 and remained high almost until the end of 2021. The estimated time from HIV-1 infection to diagnosis showed an increasing trend during 2020-2023 (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The regional clustering of the PWID sequences and their low genetic divergence confirm its local spreading and the recent nature of the outbreak. Using a stringent genetic distance threshold, we showed that HIV-1 transmission occurred among large groups of PWID. The time of epidemic growth coincided with the time of the initial identification, and HIV-1 transmission continued at high rates until 2021.

The aminolysis reaction between MN’’2 (N’’ = N(SiMe3)2; M = Fe, Co, Ni) and the neutral pro-ligand 6,6'-(1,4-phenylenebis(propane-2,2-diyl))bis(2,4-di-tert-butylphenol) (LH2) affords the low coordinate, isomorphous, monomeric bis-aryloxide complexes (2-M) (M =...

Unidirectional propagation based on surface magnetoplasmons (SMPs) has recently been realized at the interface of magnetized semiconductors. However, usually SMPs lose their unidirectionality due to nonlocal effects, especially in the lower trivial band gap of such structures. More recently, a truly unidirectional SMP (USMP)hasbeen demonstrated in the upper topological nontrivial band gap, but it supports only a single USMP, limiting its functionality. In this work, we present a fundamental physical model for multiple, robust, truly topological USMP modes at terahertz (THz) frequencies, realized in a semiconductor-dielectric-semiconductor (SDS) slab waveguide under opposing external magnetic fields. We analytically derive the dispersion properties of the SMPs and perform numerical analysis in both local and nonlocal models. Our results show that the SDS waveguide supports two truly (even and odd) USMP modes in the upper topological nontrivial band gap. Exploiting these two modes, we demonstrate unidirectional SMP multimode interference (USMMI), being highly robust and immune to backscattering, overcoming the back-reflection issue in conventional bidirectional waveguides. To demonstrate the usefulness of this approach, we numerically realize a frequency and magneti cally tunable arbitrary-ratio splitter based on this robust USMMI, enabling multimode conversion. We, further, identify a unique index-near-zero (INZ) odd USMP mode in the SDS waveguide, distinct from conventional semiconductor-dielectric-metal waveguides. Leveraging this INZ mode, we achieve phase modulation with a phase shift from −π to π. Our work expands the manipulation of topological waves and enriches the field of truly nonreciprocal topological physics for practical device applications.

Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (chALL) remains the most prevalent malignancy in children and adolescents. Improving risk stratification and providing personalized prognosis and treatment remain major clinical challenges. Herein, we analysed the clinical utility of NEAT1 lncRNA for the prognosis and prediction of treatment outcome of childhood B-cell precursor ALL (chB-ALL). NEAT1_1 isoform was quantified in bone marrow samples of chB-ALL patients at diagnosis (n = 160) and at the end of induction (n = 108) of ALL-BFM protocol, and in age-matched healthy children (n = 68). Relapse and death served as clinical end-points for survival analysis. Bootstrap analysis was performed for internal validation and decision curve analysis assessed the clinical net benefit for chB-ALL prognosis. Our analysis showed that chB-ALL patients with NEAT1 overexpression at diagnosis are at significantly higher risk for progression (HR = 2.957, 95% CI: 1.122-7.790, p = 0.011) and worse survival (HR = 5.832, 95% CI: 1.259-27.01, p = 0.012), independently of clinicopathological and treatment data. Moreover, NEAT1-fitted multivariate models resulted in improved risk stratification compared to the conventional disease markers of white blood cells, bone marrow response and minimal residual disease, while decision curve analysis highlighted the superior clinical net benefit for chB-ALL prognosis. In conclusion, NEAT1 overexpression constitutes a powerful, independent predictor of poor treatment outcomes and disease progression of chB-ALL, providing refined stratification of patient's risk.

Given the critical role of zeroing neural networks (ZNN) in various fields and the practical demand for models in effectively resisting real-time noise, this study introduces a novel anti-noise integral zeroing neural network (AN-IZNN) model alongside its enhanced counterpart (EAN-IZNN), for the applications of matrix problem solving. Theoretical analysis demonstrates their ability to achieve convergence even under different noise conditions. Both theoretical analyses and simulation validations highlight the superior performance of the proposed models over existing neural network models. Notably, the root mean square error of the proposed AN-IZNN and EAN-IZNN models is reduced by 92.6249% and 91.4178%, respectively, compared to scenarios without the proposed method, demonstrating the effectiveness of the solution.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: The year 2023 marked the 10-year anniversary of the launch of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV). Monitoring HCV treatment trends by country, region, and globally is important to assess progress toward the World Health Organization's 2030 elimination targets. Additionally, the historical patterns can help predict the treatment uptake for future therapies for other liver diseases. METHODS: The number of people living with HCV (PLHCV) treated between 2014-2023 across 119 countries was estimated using national HCV registries, reported DAA sales data, pharmaceutical companies' reports, and estimates provided by national experts. For the countries with no available data, the average estimate of the corresponding Global Burden of Disease region was used. RESULTS: An estimated 13,816,000 (95% uncertainty intervals: 13,221,000-16,415,000) PLHCV were treated, of whom 12,748,000 (12,226,000-15,231,000) were treated with DAAs, of which 11,081,000 (10,542,000-13,338,000) were sofosbuvir-based DAA regimens. Country-level data accounted for 97% of these estimates. In high-income countries, there was a 41% drop in treatment from its peak, and reimbursement was a large predictor of treatment. In low- and middle-income countries, price played an important role in expanding treatment access through the public and private markets, and treatment continues to increase slowly after a sharp drop at the end of the Egyptian national program. CONCLUSIONS: In the last 10 years, 21% of all HCV infections were treated with DAAs. Regional and temporal variations highlight the importance of active screening strategies. Without program enhancements, the number of treated PLHCV stalled in every country/region, which may not reflect a lower prevalence but may instead reflect the diminishing returns of existing strategies. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS: Long-term hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Since 2014, these infections can be effectively treated with 8-12 weeks of oral therapies. In 2015, the World Health Organization established targets to eliminate HCV by 2030, which included treatment targets for member countries. The current study examines HCV treatment patterns across 119 countries and regions from 2014 to 2023 to assess the impact of national programs. This study can assist physicians and policymakers in understanding treatment patterns within similar regions or income groups and in utilizing historical data to refine their strategies in the future.

Piezoelectric phononic-crystal plates, structured on their surface with metallic strips introducing electric-circuit loads, exhibit a tunable frequency-dispersion behaviour, nondestructively controlled in real time. Under an appropriate choice of boundary conditions through these loads, obeying a space-time propagation rule, it is demonstrated experimentally that these systems support nonreciprocal propagation of Lamb-like guided modes in their interior. The observations combined with numerical calculations confirm a broadband translation of the dispersion curves in the frequency-wavenumber space depending on the modulation speed. A careful analysis reveals a simple vector-rule relationship between the static bands and those induced by the time modulation of the external loads in the dispersion diagram. The device proposed in this study, offering dynamic changes in the electric boundary conditions by making use of switches driven by a microcontroller, thus, becomes an efficient tool not only for the realization of real-time control of elastic waves but also, and more importantly, a versatile platform for a robust generation of nonreciprocity effects in tunable, low-dimensional systems.

Abstract Ocean water clarity, influenced by marine chlorophyll concentration, significantly alters the distribution of shortwave radiation in the water column. This work aims to assess the effects of varying chlorophyll on the upper-ocean physical properties and their subsequent impact on the atmosphere, using a coupled ocean-atmosphere regional model for the Mediterranean and Black Seas. We performed 11-year (2011–2021) twin-simulation experiments based on different chlorophyll concentrations to estimate the penetration of solar radiation in the ocean. The first simulation used a monthly climatology field of chlorophyll concentrations derived from satellite observations, while in the second experiment, the chlorophyll concentration was kept constant at 0.05 mgm−3 \$\mathrm{m}\mathrm{g}\ {\mathrm{m}}^{-3}\$, representing clear water conditions. Results show that radiative heating driven by chlorophyll amplifies the seasonal cycle of temperature in the upper layers, leading to increased surface warming in summer and surface cooling in winter. Also, higher surface chlorophyll contributes to cooling in subsurface layers throughout the year due to its shading effect. The temperature response to chlorophyll variations is controlled by the mixed layer depth and a balance between (a) direct near-surface radiative heating due to the chlorophyll absorption and (b) indirect cooling resulting from vertical turbulent mixing processes with subsurface waters. The atmosphere moderates the seasonal sea surface temperature (SST) response caused by chlorophyll differential heating primarily through changes in latent heat flux. Ultimately, our simulations suggest that increased surface chlorophyll concentrations enhance the Mediterranean overturning circulation, highlighting the necessity of incorporating realistic optical forcing into regional climate modeling studies.

Abstract Ocean water clarity, influenced by marine chlorophyll concentration, significantly alters the distribution of shortwave radiation in the water column. This work aims to assess the effects of varying chlorophyll on the upper-ocean physical properties and their subsequent impact on the atmosphere, using a coupled ocean-atmosphere regional model for the Mediterranean and Black Seas. We performed 11-year (2011–2021) twin-simulation experiments based on different chlorophyll concentrations to estimate the penetration of solar radiation in the ocean. The first simulation used a monthly climatology field of chlorophyll concentrations derived from satellite observations, while in the second experiment, the chlorophyll concentration was kept constant at 0.05 \$\mathrm{m}\mathrm{g}\ {\mathrm{m}}^{-3}\$, representing clear water conditions. Results show that radiative heating driven by chlorophyll amplifies the seasonal cycle of temperature in the upper layers, leading to increased surface warming in summer and surface cooling in winter. Also, higher surface chlorophyll contributes to cooling in subsurface layers throughout the year due to its shading effect. The temperature response to chlorophyll variations is controlled by the mixed layer depth and a balance between (a) direct near-surface radiative heating due to the chlorophyll absorption and (b) indirect cooling resulting from vertical turbulent mixing processes with subsurface waters. The atmosphere moderates the seasonal sea surface temperature (SST) response caused by chlorophyll differential heating primarily through changes in latent heat flux. Ultimately, our simulations suggest that increased surface chlorophyll concentrations enhance the Mediterranean overturning circulation, highlighting the necessity of incorporating realistic optical forcing into regional climate modeling studies.

Metalloporphyrins on interfaces offer a rich playground for functional materials and hence have been subjected to intense scrutiny over the past decades. As the same porphyrin macrocycle on the same surface may exhibit vastly different physicochemical properties depending on the metal center and its substituents, it is vital to have a thorough structural and chemical characterization of such systems. Here, we explore the distinctions arising from coverage and macrocycle substituents on the closely related ruthenium octaethyl porphyrin and ruthenium tetrabenzo porphyrin on Ag(111). Our investigation employs a multitechnique approach in ultrahigh vacuum, combining scanning tunneling microscopy, low-energy electron diffraction, photoelectron spectroscopy, normal incidence X-ray standing wave, and near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure, supported by density functional theory. This methodology allows for a thorough examination of the nuanced differences in the self-assembly, substrate modification, molecular conformation and adsorption height.Metalloporphyrins on interfaces offer a rich playground for functional materials and hence have been subjected to intense scrutiny over the past decades. As the same porphyrin macrocycle on the same surface may exhibit vastly different physicochemical properties depending on the metal center and its substituents, it is vital to have a thorough structural and chemical characterization of such systems. Here, we explore the distinctions arising from coverage and macrocycle substituents on the closely related ruthenium octaethyl porphyrin and ruthenium tetrabenzo porphyrin on Ag(111). Our investigation employs a multitechnique approach in ultrahigh vacuum, combining scanning tunneling microscopy, low-energy electron diffraction, photoelectron spectroscopy, normal incidence X-ray standing wave, and near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure, supported by density functional theory. This methodology allows for a thorough examination of the nuanced differences in the self-assembly, substrate modification, molecular conformation and adsorption height.

The main objective of modern organizations is to acquire a long-term competitive advantage, so that they may cope with the requirements of organizations' complex and unstable environment. In this context, several companies try to transform themselves into Learning Organizations. The aim of this paper is to  reveal whether the awarded companies in Greece, in terms of working environment, provide learning opportunities to their employees within their working environment.  The quantitative method was employed, and a reliable questionnaire was filled by 80 employees, who work for an awarded company as one of the best companies in Greece, by a certified international organization called "Great Place to Work", DLOQ-Dimensions of the Organization Learning Questionnaire with 55 items, was selected as a valid and reliable instrument, in order to evaluate the dimensions of organizational learning and organizational performance. The findings of the current research, indicate that the company under study, has the characteristics of a Learning Organization and that the adoption of the seven dimensions of the Learning Organization has a positive impact on organizational performance. According to the study results, the subject company, identifies the importance of developing a learning culture in order to increase its performance and due to this fact, it takes all actions required for the development and training of human resources, so that it may reach its objectives.

COVID-19 pandemic had a profound negative impact on people’s personal and social life. In this chapter, after some conceptual clarifications, we provide insights into the effects of ostracism on people’s well-being as individuals, partners, and group members. Specifically, we explore (a) individual- and personality-based risk factors of ostracism (intrapersonal level); (b) deprivation of social touch, disruption of empathy and social stigmatization in interpersonal relations (interpersonal level); and (c) disruption of social identity, social stigmatization and rise in prejudiced, discriminatory, and xenophobic tendencies within groups (intergroup level). The contribution of this chapter lies in proposing an interplay among intrapersonal, interpersonal, and intergroup dimensions of identity, that is, a multi-level conceptualization of ostracism during the covidian era. By integrating theoretical arguments and research findings, we support the view that personal identity commitment and identification with social groups have similar roots, both based on the individual’s need to formulate meaningful connections to the world and, thus, cope with as well as prevent ostracism. The implications of the interplay between personal and social identity for the measurement of ostracism are also discussed. Next, strategies for tackling ostracism during the pandemic or similar widespread crises are proposed. Finally, avenues for future research are suggested.

The Gulf of Corinth (GoC), derived from a geologically young active rift, offers a unique opportunity to study changes in environmental conditions during the Quaternary period in a region where long sequences are few. Due to periods of isolation during Quaternary lowstands, the water conditions were not favorable for the occurrence of conventional palaeoceanographical proxies such as planktonic foraminifera. We present here the first almost continuous record of phytoplankton proxies (dinoflagellate cysts) and freshwater palynomorphs (green algae) for the past 1.1 Myr aiming to provide a comprehensive insight into palaeoceanographic variability between glacial and interglacials cycles. Core M0078A retrieved during the IODP expedition 381 contains a rich and diverse dinoflagellate cyst assemblage, sorted into two major ecogroups, representing alternations between marine and brackish conditions. Our results allow for the first time the reconstruction of the Gulf environmental history of connection and disconnection from marine conditions from late Pleistocene to Holocene (1.1Ma – present). Dinocysts and other palynomorphs (NPPs) suggest that the GoC was repeatedly isolated and reconnected to the Mediterranean Sea during global sea-level lowstands associated with glacial intervals. These combined proxies suggest that marine water flowed into the GoC during the eustatic highstands associated with interglacial intervals. The dinocyst assemblages show a close affinity to modern assemblages from the Black, Caspian, and Marmara Seas.

We present a comprehensive investigation into the synthesis, phase evolution and valence state of vanadium (V) in V1−xFexO2 (x = 0 %, 0.5 %, 0.75 %, 1.0 %) compounds. Polycrystalline samples have been synthesized with solid-state reaction method, followed by thermal annealing. X-Ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD) analyzed by Le Bail method revealed the transformation from monoclinic (M1) phase (space group: P21∕c) to triclinic (T) one with increasing Fe concentration. Additionally, a monoclinic (M2) phase (space group: C2∕m) emerged at 1.0 % Fe doping. Temperature-dependent XRPD and diffuse reflectance measurements elucidated the phase transitions during heating cycles, showing the impact of Fe doping on the system’s behavior. The construction of a complete phase diagram for the V1−xFexO2 system (x ≤ 1.0 %) was achieved, addressing ambiguities in the low-Fe concentration region. X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) further confirmed the influence of Fe doping on the vanadium valence states, indicating an increase of V5+ sites and therefore a lattice distortion and stabilization of the triclinic phase. The metal-insulator transition temperature (TMIT) appears to be almost constant. Post-annealing led to the reinstatement of the M1 phase in all samples, and a modified phase diagram was constructed. The accompanied decrease of V5+ ions contributed to the destabilization of the T and M2 phases, favoring the thermodynamically stable M1 phase. The findings provide valuable insights into the complex phase behavior of V1−xFexO2 compounds, showcasing a significant interplay between charge redistribution, the vanadium valence state, and the oxygen defects of the system.

BACKGROUND: Accurate population size estimation of people who inject drugs (PWID) is essential for evidence-based drug policy and service planning, yet it remains challenging. An emerging HIV outbreak in Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, highlighted the urgent need for evidence-based population size estimates. METHODS: We applied capture-recapture analysis to five respondent-driven sampling (RDS) rounds conducted during 2019-2021 to estimate PWID population size in Thessaloniki for the 2019-2021 period. These RDS rounds were part of a community-based program aimed at increasing HIV/HCV testing and linkage to care among PWID. We treated each RDS round as a capture source and used log-linear models to estimate PWID population size (past 12 months and past 30 days), accounting for potential dependencies between rounds through interaction terms. We then estimated HIV/HCV disease burden and assessed prevention and harm reduction service coverage against international standards (HIV testing, OAT, NSP). RESULTS: Based on data from 1093 unique participants across five rounds (53.9% currently injecting, 20.3% currently in OAT), capture-recapture analysis estimated 1512 PWID (95% confidence interval (CI): 1345-1741) who had injected drugs in the past 12 months. The estimated prevalence of injecting drug use was 0.22% (95% CI: 0.20-0.25) among adults aged 18-64 years. We estimated 106 people living with HIV (95% uncertainty interval (UI): 83-130) and 945 HCV-antibody-positive individuals (95% UI: 815-1077) among PWID. Needle and syringe program coverage was 36 (95% CI: 31-40) syringes per PWID in 2021. CONCLUSION: Based on this community-based population size estimate, the prevalence of injection was nearly double the official national Greek average. The annual distribution of syringes should increase by 5.6 times to reach the WHO target (≥200 syringes/PWID/year). These findings demonstrate how community-based programs with multiple RDS rounds can also yield population estimates essential for evidence-based drug policy interventions.

New presentations of Specht modules of symmetric groups over fields of characteristic zero have been obtained by Brauner, Friedmann, Hanlon, Stanley and Wachs. These involve generators that are column tabloids and relations that are Garnir relations with maximal number of exchanges between consecutive columns or symmetrization of Garnir relations with minimal number of exchanges between consecutive columns. In this paper, we examine Garnir relations and their symmetrization with any number of exchanges. In both cases, we provide sufficient arithmetic conditions so that the corresponding quotient is a Specht module. In particular, in the first case this yields new presentations of Specht modules if the parts of the conjugate partition that correspond to maximal number of exchanges greater than 1 are distinct. These results generalize the presentations mentioned above and offer an answer to a question of Friedmann, Hanlon and Wachs. Our approach is via representations of the general linear group.

This study reviewed the benefits of outdoor activities and educational programs that take place in nature in terms of the cognitive and mental development of children. Research has highlighted the benefits offered to children by their participation in experiential activities that take place outdoors and are related to natural phenomena. These activities help children realize how important it is to conserve nature and protect sites of world heritage, thus becoming active citizens in the future. In this study, the uniqueness of Syros Island is presented, emphasizing the need for the world-renowned geological heritage of Syros to be preserved and promoted, both for the scientific community and for the public, with the aim of establishing a geopark in Apano Meria, as proposed by local authorities, along with a local museum. In this context, a working methodology was developed involving the design and implementation of a pilot educational program combining field-based activities, guided interpretation, and interactive learning tools. An indicative educational program was piloted with primary and secondary school students, as well as postgraduate students from the University of Athens. Recognizing the important role of geoparks in school education, the program focused on the rare geological phenomena on the northern side of Syros and was adapted to the characteristics of each participant age group.

The Rab3 protein family is composed of a series of small GTP-binding proteins, including Rab3a, Rab3b, Rab3c, and Rab3d, termed Rab3s. They play crucial roles in health, including in brain function, such as through the regulation of synaptic transmission and neuronal activities. In the high-energy-demanding and high-traffic neurons, the Rab3s regulate essential cellular processes, including trafficking of synaptic vesicles and lysosomal positioning, which are pivotal for the maintenance of synaptic integrity and neuronal physiology. Emerging findings suggest that alterations in Rab3s expression are associated with age-related neurodegenerative pathologies, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease, among others. Here, we provide an overview of how Rab3s dysregulation disrupts neuronal homeostasis, contributing to impaired autophagy, synaptic dysfunction, and eventually leading to neuronal death. We highlight emerging questions on how Rab3s safeguards the brain and how their dysfunction contributes to the different neurodegenerative diseases. We propose fine-tuning the Rab3s signaling directly or indirectly, such as via targeting their upstream protein AMPK, holding therapeutic potential.

People who inject drugs (PWIDs) remain underserved in HIV care. Evidence on rapid antiretroviral therapy (ART) for PWID is limited. We evaluated feasibility, effectiveness, safety, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) for rapid initiation of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (BIC/FTC/TAF) supported by a peer navigation in Greece. This is a single-arm, multicenter pilot study including PWIDs (≥18 years) newly diagnosed or relinking after >3 months off ART. Participants started BIC/FTC/TAF on the same day or within 7 days and received peer navigation for 48 weeks. Co-primary endpoints were Week-24 virologic suppression (HIV-1 RNA < 50 copies/mL; FDA Snapshot) and grade 3-4 adverse events (AEs). Secondary endpoints included complete-case suppression at Weeks 24/48, CD4 recovery, retention, and PROs. Outcomes were compared with historical controls from the same centers. Thirty-seven participants were enrolled (83.8% male; median age 33.3 years). Median time to ART was 0 days (vs 78 in controls, p < 0.001). Retention was 67.6% at Week 24 and 54.1% at Week 48. In the primary (FDA Snapshot) analysis, suppression was 62.2% and 54.1% at Weeks 24 and 48; in complete-case analyses, results were 92.0% and 100%, respectively. Mean CD4 count increased by 208 cells/μL (95% CI 141-275) at Week 48. Quality of life improved and symptom burden decreased. No grade 3-4 AEs occurred. Rapid BIC/FTC/TAF with peer navigation eliminated delays to ART and achieved favorable virologic, immunologic, and PROs among those retained, with good tolerability. Despite retention challenges, this model appears feasible for PWID and may help close HIV care gaps toward UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets.

The index-near-zero (INZ) mode exhibits novel spatial phase invariance characteristics. Recent research has focused on exploring INZ-related phenomena using metamaterials, metasurfaces, and photonic crystal (PhC) structures. However, most currently proposed INZ modes lack flexible control and are challenging to implement. Additionally, INZ modes near the Dirac point in PhCs typically operate only at specific frequencies. In this study, Chern PhCs composed of simple magneto-optical materials are utilized to regulate topologically unidirectional INZ electromagnetic modes by adjusting the air thickness and varying the magnitude of an external magnetic field. Due to the unidirectional robustness and near-zero phase shift characteristics of the INZ mode, three application scenarios are proposed: a phase inverter, a perfect 50/50 splitter, and high-performance broadband sensors. This work provides a new platform and approach for optical communication and computing.

We use the Worldwide Bioclimatic Classification system to identify changes in the bioclimatic characteristics of Greece between the present and the recent past, by comparing two reference periods: 1961-1990 and 1991-2020. This classification system, developed by Rivas-Martínez et al. (2011), defines the relationship between climatic variables, expressed through bioclimatic indices, and the corresponding distribution of natural vegetation. It generates distinct climatic units known as isobioclimates, which represent specific combinations of macrobioclimates, thermotypes, and ombrotypes. These isobioclimates link climate to ecosystems and allow the characterization of environmental diversity across spatial and temporal scales. The climate input for the system consists of mean, maximum, and minimum monthly temperatures and accumulated monthly precipitation. For this study, we use the ERA5-Land monthly mean data sets from the Copernicus Climate Data Store (CDS), averaged over the two study periods. Calculation of bioclimatic indices and mapping of the isobioclimates are performed using ArcGIS. Preliminary results indicate a shift in the isobioclimatic structure of Greece towards warmer thermotypes and drier ombrotypes. These changes are mostly evident in southern and lowland regions and may reflect increasing aridity and temperatures, suggesting an intensification of ecological stress and wildfire risk, with potential consequences for biodiversity. This work will be extended with the use of regional climate model projections to explore possible future bioclimatic changes in Greece, that will help to assess how climate change may affect vegetation types and inform strategies for ecosystem management in the coming decades.

Agia Bay is located on the southeastern coast of Lemnos Island. The coastal area today is characterized by aeolian sandy deposits (dunes). The systematic investigation of a 15.5-m long sediment core from the coastal plain of Agia Bay aimed to shed light to the paleoenvironmental evolution of the area that prehistoric groups occupied. The exhaustive study of the faunal and floral remains of the deposits including benthic foraminifera, ostracods, mollusks, pollen, and dinoflagellate cysts as well as plant remains was further supported by sedimentological, micromorphological, and elemental analyses, magnetic susceptibility measurements, ERT, and absolute dating. Four main evolutionary stages have been identified since the Late Glacial. At the base of the sequence, the fluvial activity dominated the sedimentation in the area forming a small shallow wetland, while after 12,500 cal BP, a marine signal was observed at the wetland. At 7500 cal BP, the wetland increased in size and depth, whereas at 6000 up to 4000 cal BP, a connection of the wetland to the sea was established, and an inner lagoon formed. After 4000 cal BP, a nearshore environment developed due to the sea-level rise. Pollen assemblages record the occurrence of a mixed deciduous oak forest in the island interior around 6000 cal BP, while after 5000 cal BP, an expansion of Mediterranean vegetation, shaped by human activity, is inferred.

The persistence of high relapse rates and therapy resistance continues to challenge the effective management of multiple myeloma (MM). The identification of novel MM-specific molecular markers could ameliorate risk-stratification tools and accurately identify high-risk patients towards personalized prognosis and therapy. miRNA-seq analysis of CD138+ plasma cells (n = 24) unveiled miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p (miR-221/222 cluster) as the most downregulated miRNAs in R-ISS III compared to R-ISS I/II patients. Subsequently, miR-221/222 levels were quantified by RT-qPCR in CD138+ plasma cells of our screening cohort (n = 141), assessing patients' mortality and disease progression as clinical endpoints. Internal validation was performed by bootstrap analysis, while clinical benefit was estimated by decision curve analysis. Kryukov et al. (n = 149) and Aass et al. (n = 86) served as institutional-independent validation cohorts. Loss of miR-221/222 cluster was strongly associated with patients' short-term progression and poor overall survival, which was confirmed by Kryukov et al. and Aass et al. validation cohorts. Intriguingly, miR-221/222-fitted multivariate models offered superior risk-stratification within R-ISS staging and risk-based cytogenetics. Moreover, miR-221/222 loss could effectively discriminate optimal 1st-line treatment responders with inferior treatment outcome. Our study identified the loss of miR-221/222 cluster as a powerful independent predictor of patients' post-treatment progression, ameliorating prognosis and supporting precision medicine in MM.

A Bay of Biscay model configuration is used as a test case to assess the data-based consistency of ensemble-based ocean model uncertainties of several types: [A] built-in stochastic parameterizations at regional ocean scales, [B] ocean model response to a global atmospheric model ensemble and [C] both A and B simultaneously. Ensembles of varying length were generated. In addition to a seasonal-range ensemble, three medium-range ensembles were carried out over successive overlapping segments permitting to compare consistency metrics for different lead times. The largest spread was obtained for the C case, although most of the model uncertainties were attributable to the stochastic ocean parameterizations in A. We addressed the question of which ensemble type and lead time was able to provide the most realistic model uncertainties given observations of SST, sea level, and Chlorophyll a, using a theoretical and diagnostic consistency analysis framework expanded from Vervatis et al. (2021a). In our results, consistency was satisfactory for the stochastic ensembles of types A and C, for the “aged” error cases (but only marginally with respect to the “young” error cases), and whenever physical and biogeochemical uncertainty processes were active in the region and could be detected by the observational networks, such as the onset of the spring shoaling of the thermocline and the phytoplankton abundance primary bloom. Sea level empirical consistency was improved when a wide range of low- to high-frequency errors were included in the signal of dynamic atmospheric process in the data and in the model inverse barometer. These findings provide additional insight that can help configure ensemble-based methods in academic studies and in operational ocean forecasting systems.

Also used as ‘Start-up Research Tool and Reading List’ - recommended material and research tool for students, scholars and researchers: contains hundreds of academic / scientific papers, articles and studies globally.   -------------------------------------------------------------------1825 Direct citations since 2003 (updated May 16, 2025) ...... 1825  ετεροαναφορές/παραπομπές/αναφορές—απευθείας στο έργο—σε επιστημονικά περιοδικά, βιβλία, πρακτικά συνεδρίων, διδακτορικές διατριβές, μεταπτυχιακές διατριβές, κεφάλαια βιβλίων,  κ.ά. (από το 2003 έως 15/05/2025).

Here we report definite results on the mathematical metabolization of Maxwell’s equations in one of the building units, most commonly met in practice. We investigate the static/quasi-static case of a linear, homogeneous and isotropic magnetic and dielectric cylinder of intrinsic susceptibility, xint, subjected to an external potential/field, Uext/Fext, of any form on the plane normal to the directional axis, produced by a primary source that resides at the outside space. Specifically, here we address analytically a magnetic and dielectric cylinder of seemingly infinite length along the z axis, subjected to an external potential/field, Uext/Fext, that does not vary along the z axis, as well. An expansion-based mathematical approach is employed, enabling direct access to universal expressions of the response of the magnetic and dielectric cylinder, i.e., the internal potential/field, Uint/Fint, produced by the secondary source of bound charges that is originally induced by the external potential/field, Uext/Fext. Accordingly, ready-to-use expressions of the total potential/field, U=Uext+Uint/F=Fext+Fint, and of the polarization, P, of the magnetic and dielectric cylinder are directly obtained. These universal expressions are applicable to every distinct problem of different Uext/Fext, without the need to tackle it mathematically, every time, from the beginning. Interestingly, the depolarization factor, N, and extrinsic susceptibility, xext, are degenerate, obtaining a constant value irrespectively of the mode of the external potential/field, Uext/Fext. These universal expressions between Uint-Uext, U-Uext, Fint-Fext, F-Fint and P-Fext provide effective means to understand, design and realize cylindrical building units with specific characteristics.

We investigate the effects of non-synchronous trading on volatility spillover for the G-7 equity markets during the Eurozone sovereign debt crisis (ESDC) and the Covid-19 pandemic crisis. For data synchronisation we utilise ΜΑ(1) adjusted return series to estimate the Baba-Engle-Kraft-Kroner (BEKK) and the dynamic conditional correlation (DCC) models. We also consider the use of realised kernels as explanatory variables in the variance equation. In this set up, the contagion effects during crises periods are more perceptible, as the spikes are easier to interpret. We also check the robustness of our main results by applying, wavelet coherence analysis to G-7 major equity indices with realised kernels, as well as local Gaussian correlations (LGC). Our findings suggest the empirical significance of the synchronisation effects for the US and the other G-7 equity markets. We also conclude that realised kernels is an effective tool for mitigating non-synchronous effects. These results underline the significance of quantifying the synchronisation effects in equity markets as well as international portfolio diversification strategies.

Air–sea interactions play a pivotal role in shaping cyclone development and evolution. In this context, this study investigates the role of ocean optical properties and solar radiation penetration in modulating subsurface heat content and their subsequent influence on the intensity of Mediterranean cyclones. Using a regional coupled ocean–wave–atmosphere model, we conducted sensitivity experiments for Storm Daniel (2023) comparing two solar radiation penetration schemes in the ocean model component: one with a constant light attenuation depth and another with chlorophyll-dependent attenuation based on satellite estimates. Results show that the chlorophyll-driven radiative heating scheme consistently produces warmer sea surface temperatures (SSTs) prior to cyclone onset, leading to stronger cyclones characterized by deeper minimum mean sea-level pressure, intensified convective activity, and increased rainfall. However, post-storm SST cooling is also amplified due to stronger wind stress and vertical mixing, potentially influencing subsequent local atmospheric conditions. Overall, this work demonstrates that ocean bio-optical processes can meaningfully impact Mediterranean cyclone behavior, highlighting the importance of using appropriate underwater light attenuation schemes and ocean color remote sensing data in coupled models.

Air–sea interactions play a pivotal role in shaping cyclone development and evolution. In this context, this study investigates the role of ocean optical properties and solar radiation penetration in modulating subsurface heat content and their subsequent influence on the intensity of Mediterranean cyclones. Using a regional coupled ocean–wave–atmosphere model, we conducted sensitivity experiments for Storm Daniel (2023) comparing two solar radiation penetration schemes in the ocean model component: one with a constant light attenuation depth and another with chlorophyll-dependent attenuation based on satellite estimates. Results show that the chlorophyll-driven radiative heating scheme consistently produces warmer sea surface temperatures (SSTs) prior to cyclone onset, leading to stronger cyclones characterized by deeper minimum mean sea-level pressure, intensified convective activity, and increased rainfall. However, post-storm SST cooling is also amplified due to stronger wind stress and vertical mixing, potentially influencing subsequent local atmospheric conditions. Overall, this work demonstrates that ocean bio-optical processes can meaningfully impact Mediterranean cyclone behavior, highlighting the importance of using appropriate underwater light attenuation schemes and ocean color remote sensing data in coupled models.

The macrocyclic biquinazoline ligand, H-Mabiq, presents a central and a peripheral site for the coordination of metal ions, making the adsorption on solid surfaces promising for the creation of self-assembled bimetallic two-dimensional platforms. Here, we apply an on-surface metalation strategy under ultra-high vacuum conditions to guide the synthesis of metalated species and study sequential metalation patterns. We find that cobalt (as well as iron) metalation on the Ag(111) surface preferentially occurs at the macrocyclic centre without further metal coordination to the peripheral site. Nevertheless, starting from a densely packed, self-assembled H-Mabiq monolayer, the modification of the central cavity by Co is accompanied by an unusual, metalation-induced phase transformation which gives evidence of modified lateral / interfacial interactions. The selective metalation of one molecular site opens up an on-surface route to create bimetallic networks incorporating select metal ions at different locations.

In semantic fluency tasks, participants employ semantic search strategies (clustering and switching) to facilitate word retrieval. Clustering involves producing sequences of related words, while switching refers to shifting between different semantic categories. Analyzing these strategies provides insights into the structure of the mental lexicon in both native and foreign language. This study explored these strategies in a semantic fluency task with the prompt ‘My country’. Fifty—three Greek learners of Spanish completed the task in both their native language (Greek) and foreign language (Spanish). Clustering was analyzed by the number of clusters, the mean cluster size and the type of cluster, based on the type of association among its members. Switching was measured by the number of transitions. Results revealed that participants produced more and longer clusters in their L1 than in SFL responses, reflecting a more developed and interconnected mental lexicon in the L1. Additionally, they made more switches in L1, likely due to greater cognitive control and flexibility in their native language, which facilitates the cognitively demanding process of switching. Cluster types were consistent across both languages, suggesting that the internal structure of the prompt and cultural background significantly influence lexical organization regardless of language proficiency.

The volume brings together papers from the seminar »Johannine Literature« of the Society of New Testament Studies, offering a broad overview of current scholarship after the decline of the Semeia Source hypothesis. The contributors explore central issues of Johannine exegesis through detailed case studies and broader theological reflections. Several essays focus on specific semeia narratives - including the notable example of John 21 - and analyze the literary and theological function of the term »semeia«. They address overarching questions such as the interplay of signs and faith or unbelief, the relationship between signs and works, and the role of semeia within the narrative structure and theological framework of the Gospel. Special attention is paid to interpretive practices, particularly Scriptural exegesis, as employed within the Johannine corpus. Furthermore, a concluding study on the interpretation of the Cana sign in the homilies of John Chrysostom offers a patristic reception-historical perspective. The contributors to this volume reflect the diversity of methodological approaches in current Johannine research and provide new impetus for ongoing scholarly engagement with the Gospel's theology, literary form, and historical reception.

Solving Lur'e equations plays a critical role in addressing linear-quadratic optimal control (LQOC) problems, especially in cases where the control cost matrices are singular. This paper introduces, for the first time, two novel zeroing neural network (ZNN) models—ZNNLE and ZNNLE-LQOC—specifically designed to solve the Lur'e equation system and the LQOC problem, respectively. The proposed models extend the applicability of the ZNN methodology to these challenging scenarios by offering robust and efficient solutions to time-varying matrix equations. Theoretical analyses confirm the validity of both models, while numerical simulations and practical applications demonstrate their effectiveness. Moreover, a comparative study with an enhanced alternating-direction implicit (ADI) method highlights the superior performance of the ZNNLE-LQOC model in solving LQOC problems.

Background: Scant research drawing from self-determination theory has examined how need-supportive and need-thwarting teaching can explain changes in relevant outcomes in Physical Education (PE). Aim: To explore to what extent two important outcomes in PE, perceived usefulness, and academic performance, change across a school year and whether these changes could be moderated by students’ perceptions of the degree to which their PE teacher is need supportive and/or need thwarting. Method: A total of 857 PE students (Mage = 14.67; SD = 0.74; 512 girls) from 32 secondary public schools participated in the three-wave, one-year longitudinal study. We used the Teaching Interpersonal Style Questionnaire, the students’ perceptions of academic performance, and the Perceived Importance of PE scale. Results: Two independent multilevel models were conducted to address our main research questions. Perceived need support positively predicted perceived PE usefulness and academic performance in PE at the beginning of the school year, while need thwarting negatively predicted these outcomes at the same time point. Interestingly, students who perceived their teacher being more need supportive in Time 1 showed a temporal decrease in perceived usefulness and academic performance in PE in Time 2, with this trend rebounding in Time 3. Need-thwarting teaching did not predict any changes in these two outcomes across a school year. Conclusions: Findings highlight the relevance of need-supportive teaching from the beginning of the course to achieve positive outcomes at the end of the academic year in PE. © 2025 Association for Physical Education.

Europe has been investing increasingly in Lifelong Learning in recent years, possibly due to the emergence of new challenges that include population mobility and aging, as well as the transformation of the labor market due to the 4th industrial revolution. The purpose of the current paper is to address the need to employ lifelong learning policies and strategies to ensure equal access for women to the workplace and leadership in order to achieve labor integration. This paper discusses the presenting problem on data provided by independent research organisations being either public or private entities. Investing in Lifelong Learning programs in the workplace in Greece, to ensure women’s equal participation and transformation in leadership roles is also discussed in relation to segregation phenomena such as mobbing and sexual harassment. The present paper suggests that even though women may participate in Lifelong learning programmes, policies and strategies need to focus more on enhancing their soft and digital skills, in battling sexual harassment in the workplace and promoting equal access to leadership roles.

The present study focuses on lived experiences of women in Greece who grew up with a guardian/parent who used alcohol and/or drugs excessively. The aim of the study was to gain in-depth understanding of how these experiences might have affected the quality of interpersonal relationships in adult life according to women’s reports. Twelve women in Greece, who all grew up with a parent/guardian that used alcohol and/or drugs excessively volunteered to take part in the study. The content of the interviews was analyzed with thematic analysis. This qualitative study revealed the lived experience of adult women who grew up in a familial environment where use of drugs and/or alcohol was excessive on a daily basis. The women reported a number of incidents that in their own understanding affected the quality of interpersonal relationships they have formed as adults. These include, among others, premature development, nurturing parents and forming poor relationships in adult life. Social support from significant others and forming a therapeutic alliance with a mental health professional were suggested by women as significant factors in alleviating traumatic memories. The study suggests that the need for a direct response to children’s needs who grow up with parents/guardians who use alcohol and/or drugs excessively, is significant in helping them develop quality relationships in adult life.

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and its integration into education create newopportunities for teaching natural sciences, offering dynamic tools that enhance the learning process. Thisstudy explores the use of ChatGPT as a support tool for teaching the age of the Earth in secondary education.Specifically, it presents a teaching scenario that combines active inquiry, collaborative learning, and criticalthinking, enabling students to interact with ChatGPT for searching, processing, and evaluating scientificinformation.The methodology is based on a blended learning model, which combines traditional teaching withtechnology. In this approach, students formulate questions, analyze responses, and compare ChatGPT’sinformation with established scientific sources. Additionally, the study investigates the challenges associatedwith AI use in education, such as the need for digital literacy, information reliability, and the role of teachersas mediators in the learning process. The proposed teaching scenario consists of three parts: 1. Introductoryteaching, where fundamental concepts about the age of the Earth and scientific dating methods are presented.2. Interaction with ChatGPT, where students organized into groups, pose questions, search for answers, andevaluate the information received. 3. Evaluation and feedback to compare learning progress and explorestudents' experience of using the tool.The quantitative analysis of the research is based on the following data collection tools: Pre-test andpost-test, measuring students’ cognitive development before and after using ChatGPT. Likert-scalequestionnaires to capture students' experience and their perception of the reliability and usefulness of suchtools. Statistical data analysis, extracting conclusions about the effectiveness of integrating ChatGPT intoteaching practices.It was concluded that the use of ChatGPT enhanced learning engagement, encouraged an enquiryapproach and the development of students' critical thinking. Through statistical analysis of the data, it wasconcluded that it improved the cognitive level and the degree of understanding of the concepts. However, ithighlights the need for appropriate pedagogical guidance and educational policy to ensure the proper use ofsuch AI tools in the educational process.Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Education 4.0, ChatGPT, Age of the Earth (PDF) TEACHING THE AGE OF THE EARTH USING ChatGPT. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/392575642_TEACHING_THE_AGE_OF_THE_EARTH_USING_ChatGPT?channel=doi&linkId=68493f906b5a287c304a6fa1&showFulltext=true [accessed Sep 24 2025].

Rainbow trapping is a wave localization phenomenon in which different frequencies are spatially separated and con f ined by engineering dispersion through structural gradients. Initially demonstrated in tapered metamaterial systems, this concept has since been extended to plasmonic, photonic, acoustic, and elastic platforms, where graded-index profiles, chirped periodicities, and tapered geometries are used to control the group velocity and localize wave components at distinct spatial positions. These implementations enable high resolution spectral manipulation and form the foundation for broadband wave control. More recently, topological rainbow trapping has emerged as a robust alternative, leveraging topo logically protected states to achieve disorder-immune fre quency localization. This approach offers enhanced resilience to fabrication imperfections and opens new possibilities for scalable, integrated wave-based devices. In this review, we examine the physical mechanisms, system-specific implemen tations, and recent advances in both conventional and topo logical rainbow trapping. We also highlight promising appli cations ranging from optical communication and wavelength multiplexing to acoustic wave manipulation and vibrational energy harvesting and discuss key challenges and future directions in this rapidly evolving field.

Complex-frequency excitations have recently attracted a lot of attention owing to their ability to solve a number of extraordinary challenges in photonics, such as overcoming losses without gain in metalenses and plasmonic waveguides and achieving virtual absorption. However, the totality of the works so far has been mainly computational or experimental, and a full theory of the complex dynamics enabled by these excitations is still missing. Here, we develop a fully analytical, exact time-domain theory for the dynamical scattering of these excitations by both sides of dielectric plates, which have been used to achieve virtual absorption. Our precise theoretical analysis confirms previous observations and, in addition, reveals a number of intriguing phenomena that were previously missed, such as discontinuities in the scattering of the outgoing electromagnetic field and release of the stored energy in distinct packets.

We have theoretically investigated surface magnetoplasmons (SMPs) in an yttrium-iron-garnet (YIG) sandwiched waveguide. The dispersion demonstrated that this waveguide can support topological unidirectional SMPs. Based on unidirectional SMPs, magnetically controllable multimode interference (MMI) is verified in both symmetric and asymmetric waveguides. Due to the coupling between the modes along two YIG–air interfaces, the asymmetric waveguide supports a unidirectional even mode within a single-mode frequency range. Moreover, these modes are topologically protected when a disorder is introduced. Utilizing robust unidirectional SMP MMI (USMMI), tunable splitters have been achieved. It has been demonstrated that mode conversion between different modes can be realized. These results provide many degrees of freedom to manipulate topological waves.

We develop a full-wave electromagnetic (EM) theory for calculating the multipole decomposition in two-dimensional (2-D) structures consisting of isolated, arbitrarily shaped, inhomogeneous, anisotropic cylinders or a collection of such. To derive the multipole decomposition, we first solve the scattering problem by expanding the scattered electric field in divergenceless cylindrical vector wave functions (CVWFs) with unknown expansion coefficients that characterize the multipole response. These expansion coefficients are then expressed via contour integrals of the vectorial components of the scattered electric field evaluated via an electric field volume integral equation (EFVIE). The kernels of the EFVIE are the products of the tensorial 2-D Green’s function (GF) expansion and the equivalent 2-D volumetric electric and magnetic current densities. We validate the theory using the commercial finite element solver COMSOL Multiphysics. In the validation, we compute the multipole decomposition of the fields scattered from various 2-D structures and compare the results with alternative formulations. Finally, we demonstrate the applicability of the theory to study an emerging photonics application on oligomer-based highly directional switching using active media. This analysis addresses a critical gap in the current literature, where multipole theories exist primarily for three-dimensional (3-D) particles of isotropic materials. Our work enhances the understanding and utilization of the optical properties of 2-D, inhomogeneous, and anisotropic cylindrical structures, contributing to advancements in photonic and meta-optics technologies.

We examine utterances that contain merely contrastive, corrective, confirmative, and mirative focus structures in Greek. Through a perception experiment, we provide evidence regarding listener preferences about the syntactic position (‘high’ vs ‘low’) of the contrastively focused objects in SVO vs OVS patterns. The results suggest that listeners consider utterances with all four focus types acceptable, regardless of whether the sentential object appears in a ‘high’ or ‘low’ position in Greek, unlike other languages. Moreover, specific listener preferences are brought to light for each focus type: there is a clear preference for a ‘low’ position for mere focus, versus a ‘high’ one for corrective, while there is almost equal preference for both positions in the mirative and the confirmative structures. These findings support the distinction among the different types of contrastive focus with their respective (semantic, pragmatic, syntactic, and intonational) properties.

Research on environmental education in Greece highlights the urgent need to integrate climate change education into school curricula due to the severe impacts of the climate crisis. Despite growing social awareness, implementation is hindered by limited resources resulting from the economic crisis, fragmented content in textbooks, and inadequate legislation. Technological advancements present new opportunities for enhancing environmental education. This article reviews the current state of environmental education and proposes strategic directions to improve its effectiveness. A SWOT analysis identifies internal strengths and weaknesses, along with external opportunities and threats, while a PEST analysis evaluates political, economic, social, and technological influences. Based on these assessments, strategic goals and directions are outlined, focusing on the comprehensive integration of Environmental Education for Climate Change into Greece’s compulsory education system. Key proposals include the development of clear policies, structured guidelines, and curriculum adaptations to address the evolving challenges of climate change. A cohesive national framework is recommended to ensure the consistent implementation of environmental education across all educational levels. These initiatives aim to prepare future generations with the necessary knowledge and skills to mitigate and adapt to climate change, fostering a more sustainable society.

Cold air outbreaks (CAOs) are phenomena that occur across high latitudes during winter months and favor the development of extensive boundary layer clouds. As the boundary layer evolves, changes in cloud morphology often result in a stratocumulus to cumulus transition (SCT). The onset of precipitation is considered to be a key factor that leads to the break-up of the stratocumulus deck. In this modeling study we investigate the additional role that aerosols have on the SCT within a CAO event in the North Atlantic, by using prognostic fields for both aerosols and cloud droplet number concentrations (Nd). By using two chemical/aerosol schemes we assess and quantify the impact of aerosols on the SCT evolution. Our results indicate that the aerosol load and its chemical composition affect the timing of precipitation initiation and its magnitude and thus the break-up. However, the two schemes reveal contradictory results, which are mainly associated with different aerosol size and chemical composition partitioning between modes and bins. The simulations with the aerosol scheme, which considers the modal approach, show that the reduction of Nd across the SCT is driven by changes in the cloud liquid water content, the sulfate availability, and the fine sea-spray availability in the cumulus region, which suppresses sulfate activation. The Nd decreases mostly follow the decrease in accumulation-mode aerosols. For the scheme that considers the sectional approach, both the stratiform and the cumulus clouds appear sensitive to new particles formation and their competition for water. However, in the cumulus region, the higher updrafts and the greater availability of fine sea salt particles become critical for the activation of small particles. New particle formation and background sulfate concentrations are critical in this pristine environment, while sea salt particles have a significant impact on SCT in both sets of simulations.

Cold air outbreaks (CAOs) are phenomena that occur across high latitudes during winter months and favor the development of extensive boundary layer clouds. As the boundary layer evolves, changes in cloud morphology often result in a stratocumulus to cumulus transition (SCT). The onset of precipitation is considered to be a key factor that leads to the break-up of the stratocumulus deck. In this modeling study we investigate the additional role that aerosols have on the SCT within a CAO event in the North Atlantic, by using prognostic fields for both aerosols and cloud droplet number concentrations (Nd). By using two chemical/aerosol schemes we assess and quantify the impact of aerosols on the SCT evolution. Our results indicate that the aerosol load and its chemical composition affect the timing of precipitation initiation and its magnitude and thus the break-up. However, the two schemes reveal contradictory results, which are mainly associated with different aerosol size and chemical composition partitioning between modes and bins. The simulations with the aerosol scheme, which considers the modal approach, show that the reduction of Nd across the SCT is driven by changes in the cloud liquid water content, the sulfate availability, and the fine sea-spray availability in the cumulus region, which suppresses sulfate activation. The Nd decreases mostly follow the decrease in accumulation-mode aerosols. For the scheme that considers the sectional approach, both the stratiform and the cumulus clouds appear sensitive to new particles formation and their competition for water. However, in the cumulus region, the higher updrafts and the greater availability of fine sea salt particles become critical for the activation of small particles. New particle formation and background sulfate concentrations are critical in this pristine environment, while sea salt particles have a significant impact on SCT in both sets of simulations.

Η έμφυλη ισότητα στο πρωτοποριακό πανεπιστήμιο: Δημόσιος απολογισμός-προγραμματισμός δράσεων της ΕΙΦΚΔ του ΕΚΠΑ https://hub.uoa.gr/i-emfyli-isotita-sto-protoporiako-panepistimio-dimosios-apologismos-programmatismos-draseon-tis-eifkd-tou-ekpa-2/      ****Επίσης, βλέπε εισήγηση Ειρήνης Καμπερίδου με θέμα Ο ΕΜΦΥΛΟ ΧΑΡΤΗΣ ΣΤΟ ΕΚΠΑ στην εκδήλωση «Η έμφυλη ισότητα στο πρωτοποριακό πανεπιστήμιο»: Δημόσιος απολογισμός-προγραμματισμός δράσεων της Επιτροπής Ισότητας των Φύλων και Καταπολέμησης των Διακρίσεων (ΕΙΦΚΔ) του ΕΚΠΑ, σελ. 1-53. Αμφιθέατρο «Ιωάννης Δρακόπουλος», ΕΚΠΑ: https://pergamos.lib.uoa.gr/uoa/dl/object/3464920/file.pdf   (Σύνδεσμος στο YouTube του ΕΚΠΑ: https://www.youtube.com/live/zTwzXlEoXt4 .

Social identity may be a late-modern concept, styling one’s station in life through art, however, was indeed a recognizable trait of the past. Alexandrian art is the product of a society mixed both ethnically and culturally, so much so that social framing in it appears to become an end in itself. Acknowledging the liminality of death, funerary painting, and especially funerary portraiture from the Ptolemaic world, describes and defines the individual according to a predetermined set of values that are meant to reconfirm the community’s ways of representing itself. Through a series of remarkable examples, the lecture will comment on the development of Alexandrian funerary painting as a way of discussing Ptolemaic art in its Hellenistic context.

If we wish to formulate an axiomatic truth-theory interpreting a modal language and treat the symbol of necessity as a sentential operator and not as a quantifier over possible worlds, there arise various problems. These are due partly to the fact that words could have meant something other than what they actually mean and partly to certain principles of modal metaphysics. One of those principles is existentialism about propositions: a proposition that is expressed in a sentence containing a non-empty name could not exist if the referent of the name did not exist. The paper explains how the problems arise. It also explains how we can avoid them using substitutional quantification in the metalanguage. The truth-theory we can construct in that way is compositional and homophonic, and its theorems interpreting the various sentences of the modal language are derived in a straightforward way. The paper develops one such theory for a propositional modal language and one for a first-order modal language. The first-order case involves a number of intricacies that are discussed.

Neurodynamics is recognized as a powerful tool for addressing various problems in engineering, control, and intelligent systems. Over the past decade, neurodynamics-based methods and models have been rapidly developed, particularly in emerging areas such as neural computation and multi-agent systems. In this paper, we provide a brief survey of neurodynamics applied to computation and multi-agent systems. Specifically, we highlight key models and approaches related to time-varying computation, as well as cooperative and competitive behaviors in multi-agent systems. Furthermore, we discuss current challenges, potential opportunities, and promising future directions in this evolving field.

The synthesis and characterisation of two square planar {PdNO}10 pincer complexes of the form [Pd(pincer)(NO)]+ (pincer = 2,6-(tBu2PCH2)2C5H3N, 1; 2,6-(tBu2PO)2C5H3N, 2) are reported. These complexes are readily isolated by phosphine substitution of T-shaped [Pd(PtBu3)2(NO)]+ 3 in THF and the bent nitrosyl coordination mode observed in 3 is retained, as evidenced by X-ray diffraction (∠PdNO ∼ 120°), IR spectroscopy and analysis of isotopically enriched samples by 15N NMR spectroscopy. Effective oxidation states of Pd0/NO+ are calculated for 1–3 and nitrosyl coordination is principally attributed to metal-centred σ-bonding, with supplementary π-backbonding. Computational analysis, however, indicates that the Pd−NO bonds in 1 and 2 have greater PdI/NO• character and σ-bonding is more prominent than in 3. These differences in bonding are manifested experimentally in more red-shifted nitrosyl stretching frequencies and the propensity of 1 and 2 to react with dichloromethane to afford palladium(II) chloride derivatives.

We report on the preparation, crystal structure and spectral properties of the novel trimethylsulfonium tin tribromide, [(CH3)3S]SnBr3. The compound was synthesized by the solid-state reaction of (CH3)3SBr and SnBr2 in evacuated pyrex tubes at 150 °C. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD) studies at −173.15 °C show that it forms a 0D network of isolated pyramids of [SnBr3]− and (CH3)3S+ units in an orthorhombic structure (space group P212121, No. 19, a = 9.4508(8) Å, b = 14.1691(12) Å, c = 15.4409(14) Å)). Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and Le bail profile fit analysis reveals that [(CH3)3S]SnBr3 adopts at room temperature a different crystal structure with space group (Pmmm, No. 47). Moreover, the oxidation of the compound occurs gradually in ambient air, towards the formation of [(CH3)3S)]2SnBr6 (space group Pa-3, No. 205). Multi-temperature Raman spectroscopy reveals that a fully reversible structural phase transition occurs for [(CH3)3S]SnBr3 between −36 and −56 °C, as evidenced by the changes in the vibrational modes of the [SnBr3]− ions. A direct band gap of 3.38 eV at RT is determined via UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. Photoluminescence spectroscopy at −196.15 °C and 25 °C shows a weak luminescence signal with an emission maximum at ca. 460 nm for both temperatures.

Integrating plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs) into semiconductor metal oxides and structuring them as photonic crystals have been two effective strategies to develop robust photo(electro)catalysts with improved light harvesting and suppressed electron–hole recombination. In this work{,} Au-decorated WO3 inverse opal photoanodes were engineered to synergistically exploit plasmonic{,} photonic{,} and charge transfer effects for enhanced photoelectrochemical water splitting and the degradation of pharmaceutical pollutants. The WO3 inverse opal scaffolds{,} fabricated via colloidal co-assembly{,} functioned as visible light photonic crystals{,} enabling slow photon effects by aligning their photonic band gap with the absorption edge of WO3 and the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of Au NPs. Au NPs of varying sizes (5–80 nm) were incorporated post-synthetically to tailor plasmonic behavior and band alignment at the Au–WO3 metal–semiconductor heterojunction. Photoelectrochemical measurements revealed optimal photocurrent generation for 20 nm Au NPs{,} driven by near-field enhancement and improved carrier generation{,} while 5 nm Au NPs exhibited the highest photoelectrocatalytic activity in ibuprofen degradation{,} facilitated by a favorable Fermi level shift and efficient interfacial electron transfer. This work highlights the importance of size-engineered plasmonic particles integrated into photonic crystal frameworks for the rational design of multifunctional photoelectrodes in solar energy conversion and environmental remediation.

Existing research has shown that emotional intelligence (EI) and teacher self-efficacy (TSE) play an important role in the work of in-service teachers. However, there is limited research on these variables and their associations among pre-service teachers. Also, the cultural context is expected to influence EI and TSE. Therefore, this study examined the associations between EI and TSE in two cultures, Finland and Greece. A comprehensive evaluation of EI was done by including both trait EI and ability EI measures. Data from primary education student teachers from Finland (N = 82) and Greece (N = 117) were collected online. The measures of EI and TSE exhibited full configural and metric measurement invariance and partial scalar and residual/strict measurement invariance across cultures. Finnish students had significantly higher scores on all EI variables than Greek students, whereas Greek students scored higher on self-efficacy for student engagement. Structural equation modelling showed that trait EI was moderately associated with one facet of ability EI, namely emotional management, but not with emotional understanding, implying that trait EI and ability EI can be considered as partially distinct constructs. A statistically significant positive association between trait EI and TSE was found in Finland, whereas a statistically significant negative association between ability EI and TSE was found in Greece. The findings have important implications for the models of trait and ability EI, for understanding the links between trait and ability EI and TSE during the critical phase of teacher education in the two cultural contexts studied, and for culturally informed teacher education.

In this study, we considered teachers' emotion regulation and teaching-related anger as a combined construct with multiple manifestations on classroom management practices. Four hundred and five Greek in-service teachers (Mage = 44.55, SD = 10.13; age range = 21.0, 68.0 years) participated in a cross-sectional online survey who reported their ability to regulate their own emotions, their teaching-related anger and, both, dominant and collaborative approaches in classroom management practices. Latent Profile Analysis revealed an insufficiently regulated teacher profile with low emotion regulation and high anger, an adequately regulated teacher profile with medium levels of both emotion regulation and anger, and a teacher profile labelled as sufficiently regulated, with high emotion regulation and low anger. Although the teachers in the three groups did not differ in dominant practices, the teachers in the sufficiently regulated group reported higher collaborative practices than their counterparts in the other two groups. The results indicate that teachers with high emotion regulation and low anger favour collaboration, as they are better equipped to handle unexpected events that arise from active student interactions. Our findings underscore the key role of adaptive emotion regulation practices to promote collaborative learning in the classroom. © 2025 The Author(s). European Journal of Education published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Thuwalamides A–E (1, 3, 5, 6 and 8), previously undescribed polychlorinated amides, along with ten previously reported related compounds (2, 4, 7 and 9–15), were isolated from the organic extract of the marine sponge Lamellodysidea herbacea (Keller), collected off the village of Thuwal in the Red Sea at Saudi Arabia. The structures of the isolated compounds have been determined through extensive analysis of their NMR and MS data, while their absolute stereochemistry was unequivocally established via single crystal X-ray diffraction. Additionally, the absolute stereochemistry of the previously reported compounds 2 and 4, whose configuration was not determined, has also been established using single-crystal X-ray crystallographic analysis. The antibacterial activity of compounds 1–15 was evaluated against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Among them, compound 14 displayed activity against S. aureus comparable to vancomycin that was used as a positive control with a MIC value of 4 μg/mL.

Topological rainbow trapping (TRT) arises from the interplay between topological states and frequency-dependent slow-wave effects. Waves first slow down, then become spatially separated by frequency and are ultimately trapped at distinct locations. TRT designs have been primarily explored in the context of photonic crystals and subsequently extended to acoustic and elastic systems. This emerging TRT concept enables robust, frequency-selective localization beyond conventional rainbow trapping, supporting compact, multi-wavelength, topologically protected platforms for extreme wave manipulation. In this Review, we elucidate the fundamental principles of TRT, emphasizing the physical mechanisms that create near-zero group velocity points with robust frequency-dependent localization. We highlight three key TRT mechanisms: graded index profiles, which gradually vary material parameters to reshape dispersion and induce slow-wave effects; higher-order topological corner modes, which exploit localized corner states for robust frequency-specific wave confinement; and synthetic dimensions, which expand the parameter space of the system to engineer stable interface states at distinct frequencies. Furthermore, we address key challenges in TRT, such as energy dissipation and tunability, while highlighting its broad range of potential applications. Finally, we discuss emerging research directions for TRT.

Mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired mitophagy are hallmarks of ageing and age-related pathologies. Disrupted inter-organellar communication among mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and lysosomes, further contributes to cellular dysfunction. While mitophagy has emerged as a promising target for neuroprotection and geroprotection, its potential to restore age-associated defects in organellar crosstalk remains unclear. Here, we show that mitophagy deficiency deregulates the morphology and homeostasis of mitochondria, ER and lysosomes, mirroring age-related alterations. In contrast, Urolithin A (UA), a gut-derived metabolite and potent mitophagy inducer, restores inter-organellar communication via calcium signaling, thereby, promoting mitophagy, healthspan and longevity. Our multi-omic analysis reveals that UA reorganizes ER, mitochondrial and lysosomal networks, linking inter-organellar dynamics to mitochondrial quality control. In Caenorhabditis elegans, UA induces calcium release from the ER, enhances lysosomal activity, and drives DRP-1/DNM1L/DRP1-mediated mitochondrial fission, culminating in efficient mitophagy. Calcium chelation abolishes UA-induced mitophagy, blocking its beneficial impact on muscle function and lifespan, underscoring the critical role of calcium signaling in UA's geroprotective effects. Furthermore, UA-induced calcium elevation activates mitochondrial biogenesis via UNC-43/CAMK2D and SKN-1/NFE2L2/Nrf2 pathways, which are both essential for healthspan and lifespan extension. Similarly, in mammalian cells, UA increases intracellular calcium, enhances mitophagy and mitochondrial metabolism, and mitigates stress-induced senescence in a calcium-dependent manner. Our findings uncover a conserved mechanism by which UA-induced mitophagy restores inter-organellar communication, supporting cellular homeostasis and organismal health.Abbreviations: Ca(2+): calcium ions; BJ: human foreskin fibroblasts; BNIP3: BCL2 interacting protein 3; BP: bipyridyl; CAMK2D: calcium/calmodulin dependent protein kinase II delta; CCCP: carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenyl hydrazone; DEGs: differentially expressed genes; DEPs : differentially expressed peptides; DFP: deferiprone; DNM1L/DRP1: dynamin 1 like; EGTA: ethylene glycol bis(2-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid; EMC: endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein complex; ER: endoplasmic reticulum; FCCP: carbonyl cyanide p-trifluoro-methoxyphenyl hydrazone; GO: gene ontology; GSVA: Gene Set Variation Analysis; HUVECs: human umbilical vein endothelial cells; IMM: inner mitochondrial membrane; ITPR/InsP3R: inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor; MAM: mitochondria-associated ER membrane; MAPK: mitogen-activated protein kinase; MCU: mitochondrial calcium uniporter; MEFs: mouse embryonic fibroblasts; NAC : N-acetylcysteine; NFE2L2/Nrf2: NFE2 like bZIP transcription factor 2; NMN: nicotinamide mononucleotide; NR: nicotinamide riboside; OMM: outer mitochondrial membrane; PCA: principal-component analysis; PPARGC1A/PGC1α: PPARG coactivator 1 alpha; PQ: paraquat; TMCO: transmembrane and coiled-coil domains 1; TMRE: tetramethylrhodamine ethyl ester perchlorate; UA: urolithin A; VDAC: voltage dependent anion channel.

Wine matrix is composed of a vast number of compounds that depend on a wide range of factors associated with the raw material, such as grape variety and vineyard location, and processing, such as the winemaking protocol and barrel ageing. Monitoring all aspects of winemaking from grape to wine is a technically challenging task, as different key compounds are related to each step, requiring different analytical methods for their estimation. Nowadays, efforts are made to avoid the use of chemical reagents that can be harmful to the environment and lower the energy consumption during chemical analyses. Ideally, analyses should be performed using a single instrument, without the need for solvents or lengthy preparatory steps. In the past few years, due to its cost-effectiveness and the speediness of the analyses while using low sample volumes, IR spectroscopy has been effectively applied in grape and wine analyses, from compound identification and quantification to wine profile characterisation and authentication. One of its most advantageous features is that it can produce a spectral fingerprint that is unique to each sample, making it highly efficient, especially for authentication purposes. This review examines the feasibility of employing IR spectroscopy for the assessment of all steps required in winemaking, from grape to wine, and its ability to produce integrated results.

Extreme weather events, increasingly frequent in the Mediterranean due to climate change, pose significant risks by triggering hydrogeomorphic processes such as slope failures. These phenomena, particularly prevalent in tectonically active and steeply sloped coastal areas, present challenges for monitoring due to their spatial and temporal dynamics.Unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and advanced photogrammetric techniques, including structure-from-motion (SfM) and multi-view stereo (MVS), have emerged as transformative tools for capturing high-resolution terrain data. This study employs UAS-aided photogrammetry alongside change detection methods, such as digital elevation models of differences (DoD) and cloud-to-cloud distance (C2C), to analyze geomorphic changes induced by extreme storms in highly visited and geologically dynamic coastal areas in Greece.The findings reveal the utility of UAS in providing detailed morphometric measurements, delineating areas of erosion and deposition, and identifying high-risk zones. These capabilities facilitate a deeper understanding of geomorphic processes, enabling informed risk assessment and management strategies. The study underscores the potential of integrating UAS and photogrammetry for continuous monitoring in regions with high socioeconomic and environmental value. This approach not only supports sustainable development by minimizing disruptions but also enhances safety standards in vulnerable, high-exposure coastal areas. Through this methodological framework, the research contributes to addressing the pressing need for resilient hazard management in the context of evolving climatic conditions.

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a benchmark photocatalyst for environmental applications, but its limited visible-light activity due to a wide band gap and fast charge recombination restricts its practical efficiency. This study presents the development of heterostructured Ag (Au)/MoS2-TiO2 inverse opal (IO) films that synergistically integrate photonic, plasmonic, and semiconducting functionalities to overcome these limitations. The materials were synthesized via a one-step evaporation-induced co-assembly approach, embedding MoS2 nanosheets and plasmonic nanoparticles (Ag or Au) within a nanocrystalline TiO2 photonic framework. The inverse opal architecture enhances light harvesting through slow-photon effects, while MoS2 and plasmonic nanoparticles improve visible-light absorption and charge separation. By tuning the template sphere size, the photonic band gap was aligned with the TiO2-MoS2 absorption edge and the localized surface plasmon resonance of Ag, enabling optimal spectral overlap. The corresponding Ag/MoS2-TiO2 photonic films exhibited superior photocatalytic and photoelectrocatalytic degradation of tetracycline under visible light. Ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy and Mott–Schottky analysis confirmed favorable band alignment and Fermi level shifts that facilitate interfacial charge transfer. These results highlight the potential of integrated photonic–plasmonic-semiconductor architectures for efficient solar-driven water treatment.

En las últimas décadas se han desarrollado numerosas herramientas digitales, algunas de las cuales se han orientado a la investigación lingüística. Este estudio presenta tres herramientas informáticas: Dispografo, Gephi y Lexpro, utilizadas para el apoyo del análisis psicolingüístico del léxico disponible. Estas herramientas representan asociaciones léxicas en el lexicón mental mediante la teoría de grafos, a las cuales tenemos acceso a través de la prueba de disponibilidad léxica. Se profundiza en los conceptos de disponibilidad léxica, red semántica y grafos léxicos, fundamentales para el análisis y visualización de relaciones léxicas. Además, se examina la función de estas herramientas y se muestran ejemplos de grafos generados en diversos estudios con Dispografo, Gephi y Lexpro. Los análisis revelan que estas herramientas permiten visualizar las complejas relaciones léxicas del lexicón mental y facilitan un análisis profundo, contribuyendo a una mejor comprensión de dichas relaciones. Su uso demuestra ser valioso para el estudio de la estructura y organización del léxico. Finalmente, se exploran las aplicaciones pedagógicas de los grafos léxicos en la enseñanza de lenguas extranjeras y sus posibles desarrollos futuros a través de inteligencia artificial y procesamiento del lenguaje natural.

Abstract An isotype heterojunction n+-ZnO/n-Si photodetector is developed, showing adjustable wavelength-selective operation at self-powered conditions. Without an external bias voltage, the device can operate either as a broadband UV–vis–NIR or as a NIR-only photodetector, depending on the relative carrier concentrations of ZnO and silicon. In addition, the photodetector can be tuned to either broadband or NIR operation by the application of an external bias voltage, regardless of carrier concentrations. At negative bias, it demonstrates UV–vis–NIR photodetection, while at positive bias, NIR photodetection. Photovoltage and photocurrent measurements for pulsed illumination reveal a high-speed self-powered response, with rise and fall times <100 µs across the UV–vis–NIR. The device can be engineered to reproduce undistorted pulsed light with frequencies as high as 1 kHz. Self-powered responsivity reaches ≈70 mA W−1, which becomes ≈4 A W−1 with an applied external bias.

BACKGROUND: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common supraventricular arrhythmia and is associated with an impaired prognosis. Studies using implantable cardiac monitors suggest that this association is closely linked to AF burden, defined as the percentage of time spent in AF. Consequently, there is a growing need for affordable and comfortable alternative devices, such as wearables, capable of reliably monitoring AF burden in patients with AF. METHODS: Major electronic databases were searched for studies comparing AF burden quantification using wearables and reference ECG monitoring methods. A Bayesian approach was adopted for the final analysis. RESULTS: Six studies, including a total of 448 patients and 36,978 h of valid simultaneous recordings, were analyzed. Bayesian analysis revealed no statistically significant differences between wearables and reference methods in AF burden quantification. The mean error was 1% (95% CrIs: -4% to 7%). Similar findings were observed in the subgroup analysis of studies assessing only smartwatches. Between-study heterogeneity was low, and no evidence of publication bias was detected. CONCLUSION: Our analysis suggests that AF burden quantification using wearables is comparable to reference ECG monitoring methods. These findings support the potential role of wearables in clinical practice, particularly for research and prognostic purposes. However, more studies are needed to determine whether the observed statistical equivalence translates to clinical significance, thereby supporting the widespread use of wearables in the assessment of rhythm control therapeutic strategies.

This study presents and evaluates interpretations of 2 Thess 2:3-12 from a critical-Orthodox perspective in the Greek commentaries of Severian of Gabala, John Chrysostom, Theodoret of Cyrus, John of Damascus (dubium), and Theophylact of Ohrid. The patristic comments elaborate on the nature, actions, and unique connection between the Antichrist and the devil, as well as the significance of “the restrainer”, which prevents the Antichrist’s arrival. The commentaries also thoroughly discuss the concept of the “mystery of lawlessness”, the responsibility and condemnation of those who will believe in the Antichrist, and his ultimate defeat by the Lord Jesus Christ at his second coming. In conclusion, the study finds that the patristic commentators, by extensively referring to the Antichrist, essentially describe the nature of evil – personified by the figure of the Antichrist – and the way to address it. According to this conclusion, evil primarily consists in human self-deification and simultaneous estrangement from communion with God. Evil must be overcome with good; thus, through faith in God, abstaining from all forms of aggression, and practicing love for one’s fellow human beings.

Kamberidou, Irene (2025). Women’s Agency and Entrepreneurship in the Digital Age.  Presentation in Session V, "Entrepreneurship, Education, and Gender Dynamics" at the ICAEB & ICSTM 2025: the 9th International Conference on Applied Economics and Business (ICAEB 2025) and the 9th International Conference on Sustainable Tourism Management (ICSTM 2025), August 24-26, 2025 Paris, France. DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.19976.28167. Available in PERGAMOS:  https://pergamos.lib.uoa.gr/mypergamos/scientific-publications/edit/uoadl:5303794  

The paper is an attempt to constructively use the differences between Science, led by Physics, on one hand and Biology on the other. More specifically, the common framework of STEM teaching is encouraged as a teaching tool for teaching concepts related to the epistemology of the two disciplines, through their epistemological differences. As such disparities, the following are proposed: The existence of a unifying theory in their teaching, and the absence of "universal" laws in Biology. Furthermore, the dissimilar roles played among them by the experiment, mathematics and history. In addition, it is commended the difference in the meanings of the concepts "Social Implications" and "Social Science", together with the meaning of the essentialism in Physics, as opposed to the non-typological "population perspective" in Biology, where the endless, random errors and deviations (mutations) are the universal driving force, that prevails behind all biological phenomena.

Βέδες, Μπράχμανας, Αράνυακας, Ουπανισάδες, Γκρίχυα Σούτρας, Ντάρμα Σούτρας, Ντάρμα Σάστρας, Μαχά-μπάρατα, Ραμάγιανα, Πουράνας κ.τ.λ. Πώς αποτυπώνεται η θέση της γυναίκας στην ινδουιστική γραμματεία; Ποια είναι η θέση της κατά την ιστορική πορεία εξέλιξης του Ινδουισμού; Από ποιες φάσεις εξέλιξης πέρασε η θέση της στην Ινδία, στη χώρα όπου γεννήθηκε ο Ινδουισμός και σήμερα είναι συγκεντρώνει τον μεγαλύτερο όγκο του παγκόσμιου ινδουιστικού πληθυσμού; Ποιες ήταν οι απόψεις των κοινωνικών μεταρρυθμιστών του 19ου αιώνα και του Μαχάτμα Γκάντι για το γυναικείο φύλο; Ποιες είναι οι απόψεις του ινδικού φεμινιστικού κινήματος; Ποια είναι η θέση της ως κόρη, σύζυγος, μητέρα, χήρα, ασκήτρια, θεά κατά το ιστορικό διάβα του Ινδουισμού; Πώς νοείται η γυναικεία φύση και ποιες ηθικές και κανονιστικές παράμετροι συνδέονται με τις βιολογικές λειτουργίες του γυναικείου σώματος; Αυτά και άλλα ερωτήματα εξετάζει η παρούσα μελέτη από θρησκειολογική σκοπιά, λαμβάνοντας υπ’ όψιν ιστορικές, κοινωνιολογικές, ψυχολογικές και κοινωνικοπολιτικές παραμέτρους. Μια μελέτη που απευθύνεται όχι μόνο σε θρησκειολόγους, αλλά σε κάθε ενδιαφερόμενο.

Έχει φύλο η επιχειρηματικότητα; Συνεχίζεται η έμφυλη κόπωση στον εργασιακό χώρο; Πώς διαχειρίζονται και τροποποιούν τα αναχρονιστικά στερεότυπα στον τομέα της επιχειρηματικότητας οι γυναίκες του 21ου αιώνα; Τι είδους γνώσεις και δεξιότητες απαιτούνται στον ψηφιακό κόσμο σήμερα για επαγγελματική εξέλιξη και επιτυχία στο επιχειρείν; Ερευνητικά δεδομένα με θέμα τη γυναίκα, το φύλο, την επιχειρηματικότητα και την ηγεσία (1974–2024) επιβεβαιώνουν ότι δεν έχουν αλλάξει πολλά. Παρά την πρόοδο που έχει σημειωθεί στην αναγνώριση των καινοτομιών και συνεισφορών των γυναικών στον τομέα της επιχειρηματικότητας, οι γυναίκες επιχειρηματίες υποεκπροσωπούνται παγκοσμίως. Οι γυάλινες οροφές δεν έχουν θρυμματιστεί ακόμα.  Ερευνητικά στοιχεία του 21ου αιώνα -όπως και εκείνα του 20ού- εντοπίζουν ότι το έμφυλο χάσμα στην επιχειρηματικότητα προκύπτει εξαιτίας των έμφυλων διακρίσεων/στερεότυπων, της έλλειψης δεξιοτήτων μάρκετινγκ, διαθεσιμότητας οικονομικών πόρων και υπηρεσιών υποστήριξης,  συμπεριλαμβανομένης της κακής πρόσβασης σε επιχειρηματικά δίκτυα, ακόμα και στο αναπτυσσόμενο-νέο ψηφιακό τοπίο. Τα ίδια ερωτήματα διερευνώνται σήμερα, καθώς οι έμφυλες διακρίσεις— που τώρα συμπεριλαμβάνουν και το ψηφιακό χάσμα—εξακολουθούν να υπάρχουν.  Επιπροσθέτως, μολονότι οι ανεπτυγμένες και αναπτυσσόμενες χώρες αναγνωρίζουν ότι οι επιχειρηματικές δραστηριότητες των γυναικών συμβάλλουν στην κοινωνικοοικονομική ανάπτυξη και βιωσιμότητα, «η δίνη των πολλαπλών υποχρεώσεων/εργασιών» (multitasking whirlpool) εξακολουθεί να οδηγεί στην έμφυλη κόπωση, υποδεικνύοντας ότι έχουμε ακόμη πολύ δρόμο να διανύσουμε, ειδικά  στις αναπτυσσόμενες οικονομίες. Αυτή η μελέτη επιδιώκει να απαντήσει στο ακόλουθο ερευνητικό ερώτημα: Μεταβάλλονται οι αντιλήψεις για την επαγγελματική επιτυχία τον 21ο αιώνα; Ο στόχος είναι να αναδειχθεί το είδος των γνώσεων και δεξιοτήτων που απαιτούνται στο ψηφιακό τοπίο και να εντοπισθούν τα χαρακτηριστικά μιας επιτυχημένης επιχειρηματία. Μελλοντικές κατευθύνσεις: να ρίξουμε λίγο φως σε γυναίκες-πρότυπα που διαπρέπουν στον κόσμο των startups (νεοφυείς επιχειρήσεις), στη γαλάζια οικονομία και στην αργυρή οικονομία.****ΕΠΙΣΗΣ ΒΛΕΠΕ ΜΟΝΙΜΗ ΔΙΕΥΘΥΝΣΗ  ΣΤΗΝ ΠΕΡΓΑΜΟ (PERGAMOS) ΤΟΥ ΕΚΠΑ:https://pergamos.lib.uoa.gr/uoa/dl/object/3473838  

In 1969 Greece withdrew from the Council of Europe (CoE), following pressure exercised by various European countries, organisations, social movements and individuals in response to the brutal conduct of the military junta that had taken power by force on 21 April 1967. This volume brings together an international cast of noted historians, oral historians, political scientists, and legal scholars to investigate the perceptions, policies and roles of the key actors involved. These figures range from international organizations, states, and social movements to NGOs and individuals, critically demonstrating the extent of the legacy and long-term impact of the 'Greek Case' on international human rights. The 1969 'Greek Case' in the Council of Europe reveals how the pressure applied by the Council of Europe proved to be crucial for the international condemnation of the Colonels' regime, setting a precedent in international human rights cases for the significance of the collection of evidence on the use of torture.

In this letter, we demonstrate that a set of absorbing boundary conditions (ABCs) for numerical simulations of waves, proposed originally by Engquist and Majda and later generalized by Trefethen and Halpern, can alternatively be derived with the use of Pauli matrices algebra. Hence a novel approach to the derivation of one-way wave equations in electromagnetics is proposed. That is, the classical wave equation can be factorized into two two-dimensional wave equations with first-order time derivatives. Then, using suitable approximations, not only Engquist and Majda ABCs can be obtained, but also generalized ABCs proposed by Trefethen and Halpern, which are applicable to simulations of radiation problems.

BACKGROUND: Timely and safe elective health care facilitates return to normal activities for patients and prevents emergency admissions. Surgery is a cornerstone of elective care and relies on complex pathways. This study aimed to take a whole-system approach to evaluating access to and quality of elective health care globally, using inguinal hernia as a tracer condition. METHODS: This was a prospective, international, cohort study conducted between Jan 30 and May 21, 2023, in which any hospital performing inguinal hernia repairs was eligible to take part. Consecutive patients of any age undergoing primary inguinal hernia repair were included. A measurement set mapped to the attributes of WHO's Health System Building Blocks was defined to evaluate access (emergency surgery rates, bowel resection rates, and waiting times) and quality (mesh use, day-case rates, and postoperative complications). These were compared across World Bank income groups (high-income, upper-middle-income, lower-middle-income, and low-income countries), adjusted for hospital and country. Factors associated with postoperative complications were explored with a three-level multilevel logistic regression model. FINDINGS: 18 058 patients from 640 hospitals in 83 countries were included, of whom 1287 (7·1%) underwent emergency surgery. Emergency surgery rates increased from high-income to low-income countries (6·8%, 9·7%, 11·4%, 14·2%), accompanied by an increase in bowel resection rates (1·2%, 1·4%, 2·3%, 4·2%). Overall waiting times for elective surgery were similar around the world (median 8·0 months from symptoms to surgery), largely because of delays between symptom onset and diagnosis rather than waiting for treatment. In 14 768 elective operations in adults, mesh use decreased from high-income to low-income countries (97·6%, 94·3%, 80·6%, 61·0%). In patients eligible for day-case surgery (n=12 658), day-case rates were low and variable (50·0%, 38·0%, 42·1%, 44·5%). Complications occurred in 2415 (13·4%) of 18 018 patients and were more common after emergency surgery (adjusted odds ratio 2·06, 95% CI 1·72-2·46) and bowel resection (1·85, 1·31-2·63), and less common after day-case surgery (0·39, 0·34-0·44). INTERPRETATION: This study demonstrates that elective health care is essential to preventing over-reliance on emergency systems. We identified actionable targets for system strengthening: clear referral pathways and increasing mesh repair in lower-income settings, and boosting day-case surgery in all income settings. These measures might strengthen non-surgical pathways too, reducing the burden on society and health services. FUNDING: NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Global Surgery and Portuguese Hernia and Abdominal Wall Society (Sociedade Portuguesa de Hernia e Parede Abdominal).

We find ourselves in an ever-evolving environment, where the past fifty years have marked a pivotal moment in scientific thinking. This shift is particularly evident in the scientific approach to analyzing natural-induced hazards. Geohazards annually contribute significantly to loss of life and property, with mass movements standing out as widespread occurrences globally. The study of extreme events and their repercussions on landscape stability is a critical area in environmental research. In this paper, we showcase the advancements in the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Remote Sensing (RS) for improved landslide assessments, leveraging developments in Earth Observation (EO) data analysis. We highlight the application of Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA), which have not traditionally been tailored for landslide studies but have proven effective in this context. The framework enables the translation of complex real-world landslide scenarios into analyzable objects through segmentation algorithms, applying subsequent classifications via rule-based or advanced Machine Learning (ML) algorithms. We demonstrate how ML has the potential to revolutionize geoscience data analysis and address major societal concerns presented by landslide hazards by tapping into the vast reserves of geoscience data. ML algorithms, particularly Random Forest (RF), integrated into an Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA) workflow, demonstrated adaptability for sub-zone landslide mapping on a local scale. Given the increasing frequency of extreme meteorological events driven by climate change, the integration of UAV datasets, Structure from Motion (SfM), and advancements in OBIA and AI can respond effectively by enabling precise and accurate analysis of landslide and rockfall failures. Our results affirm that rotational landslides and their thematic sub-zones were adequately recognized and mapped through the ML procedure.

This research focuses on sustainable consumption and production (SCP) to balance economic growth with ecological preservation. It assesses Greek consumers' attitudes, satisfaction, and knowledge about green products through questionnaires, analyzing the interplay of these factors in consumer satisfaction and highlighting the role of awareness in the green market. The study also compares these findings with Romanian consumer behavior to understand cultural and socioeconomic influences. Results show that positive attitudes towards green products and access to information significantly enhance consumer satisfaction, a trend consistent across different cultures. However, a lack of sustainability knowledge among youth presents an educational opportunity. The study advocates for strategic educational efforts to support SCP, emphasizing the need for well-informed product design, fair pricing, and clear communication to promote sustainable consumer habits, contributing to the broader SCP discourse and guiding future sustainable economy policies.

Η μελέτη αφορμάται από την προβληματική σχετικά με την έννοια του αγίου ανθρώπου στον Παύλο και στη μεταγενέστερη ανάπτυξη της Ορθόδοξης Χριστιανικής Θεολογίας. Ενώ στον Παύλο η ανθρωπολογική μεταβολή του ανθρώπου σε άγιο εντοπίζεται στο γεγονός του βαπτίσματος, η Ορθόδοξη Θεολογία τοποθετεί αυτή την ανθρωπολογική μεταμόρφωση στην κατάληξη του αγώνα του πιστού κατά των παθών. Το ερώτημα βάσει αυτών των δεδομένων είναι αν υπάρχουν ήδη στα κείμενα του Παύλου, και σε ποιον βαθμό, ίχνη αυτής της Ορθόδοξης αντίληψης. Ως περίπτωση παραδείγματος επελέγη το κείμενο Φιλ 1:12-2:18, το οποίο περιλαμβάνει στο πρώτο μέρος του (1:12-26) μια αφήγηση του Παύλου για τον εαυτό του, όπως φαίνεται από τη συχνή χρήση του α΄ ενικού προσώπου, καθώς και ρημάτων οριστικής έγκλισης. Αντίθετα, στο δεύτερο, παραινετικό μέρος του υπό εξέταση κειμένου (1:27-2:18 εκτός από το 2:6-11, το οποίο αποτελεί έναν παρένθετο χριστολογικό ύμνο) επικρατεί το β΄ πληθυντικό πρόσωπο και ρήματα σε υποτακτική ή προστακτική έγκλιση. Η μελέτη συγκρίνει τα δύο αυτά μέρη σε γραμματικό, συντακτικό, λεξιλογικό και θεολογικό επίπεδο, ώστε να καταλήξει στα εξής συμπεράσματα: Το αφηγηματικό και το παραινετικό τμήμα του υπό μελέτη κειμένου παρουσιάζουν σημαντική εννοιολογική και ακόμη και λεκτική σύγκλιση. Προκύπτει επομένως ότι αυτό που ισχύει ήδη για τον Παύλο (οριστική έγκλιση) καθίσταται πρόταγμα για τους πιστούς των Φιλίππων (προστακτική έγκλιση). Οι Φιλιππήσιοι καλούνται να μιμηθούν τον Παύλο, ο οποίος μιμείται με τη σειρά του τον Χριστό, στην αυτοθυσιαστική του ταπείνωση και στην βάσει αυτής επιδίωξη της ενότητας. Η μελέτη κατακλείεται με τις εξής συμπερασματικές παρατηρήσεις: Καθίστανται σαφείς η ηθική υπεροχή και η πνευματική ωριμότητα του Παύλου έναντι των πιστών των Φιλίππων, οι οποίοι δεν έχουν ακόμη καταφέρει να απαρνηθούν τις ιδιοτελείς επιδιώξεις τους και να έχουν αρραγή μεταξύ τους ενότητα, στηριγμένη στην ταπείνωση και στη μίμηση του αποστόλου. Από την άλλη πλευρά ωστόσο δεν διαφαίνεται στο κείμενο καμία ανθρωπολογική διάσταση μεταξύ Παύλου και πιστών, όσο και αν ηθικά βρίσκονται σε διαφορετικά μεταξύ τους επίπεδα. Διαφοροποιώντας την έννοια του αγίου ανθρώπου από τον εν γένει Χριστιανό και μη βλέποντας την αγιότητα ως τη δεδομένη ανθρωπολογική κατάσταση του βαπτισμένου πιστού, αλλά ως τον τελικό στόχο του, η Ορθόδοξη Θεολογία προσπάθησε να ερμηνεύσει το ιδιαίτερα διαδεδομένο φαινόμενο Χριστιανών κατ' όνομα, οι οποίοι όμως ζούσαν αμαρτωλή ζωή, σε αντιδιαστολή προς τους «αγίους» της εποχής του απ. Παύλου. Αν και κατανοητή η μεταβολή αυτή στην περί αγιότητας του ανθρώπου αντίληψη, δεν συνάδει ουσιαστικά με την παύλεια ανθρωπολογία, η οποία, έστω και αν έχει εν μέρει ουτοπικό χαρακτήρα, είναι καίριας σημασίας για την κατανόηση και τον επαναπροσδιορισμό της χριστιανικής ταυτότητας διαχρονικά.This study explores the concept of the “holy human being” (ἅγιος) in the theology of Paul and its subsequent development within Orthodox Christian theology. While Paul situates the anthropological transformation into holiness in the event of baptism, Orthodox theology locates this transformation in the culmination of the believers' struggle against their passions. Based on this background, the study investigates whether traces of this Orthodox understanding can be identified in Paul’s writings. Philippians 1:12–2:18 serves as a case study. The first section (1:12–26) is largely self-narrative, characterized by Paul’s use of the first-person singular and verbs in the indicative. By contrast, the second section (1:27–2:18, excluding the Christological hymn in 2:6–11) is exhortative, predominantly employing the second-person plural and verbs in the subjunctive or imperative mood. The study compares these two sections on grammatical, syntactical, lexical, and theological levels and concludes that they exhibit significant conceptual and even linguistic convergence. This suggests that what is already true for Paul (indicative mood) becomes a directive for the Philippian believers (imperative mood). The Philippians are called to imitate Paul, who, in turn, imitates Christ in his self-sacrificial humility (2:6-11). The study concludes that Paul’s moral superiority and spiritual maturity are evident compared to the Philippian believers, who have yet to abandon selfish pursuits and achieve unity rooted in humility by imitating Paul. On the other hand, the text does not present a fundamental anthropological distinction between Paul and the believers despite their differing moral levels. Orthodox theology, by not considering "holiness" as an innate anthropological trait of all baptized Christians but viewing it as their final spiritual goal, sought to address the later phenomenon of Christians living sinful lives. While this shift in the understanding of holiness is historically understandable, it does not align with Pauline anthropology. The latter, though partially unrealistic, remains central to understanding and redefining Christian identity across time.

The present study delves into the structure and lexical organization of L1 and L2 mental lexicons. Indirect access to the mental lexicon is provided by semantic fluency tasks, which inform researchers about how the words are organized in the mental lexicon and retrieved when necessary. Here, two groups of participants were asked to retrieve as many words of the category fruits and vegetables as possible in two minutes. The first group is made up of native speakers of Spanish who responded in Spanish L1, whereas the second group is made up of native speakers of Greek who are learning Spanish foreign language (SFL) who responded first in Spanish FL and later in Greek L1. The three sets of responses were scrutinized and compared for similarities and differences. Results point to a retrieval mechanism based on L1-mediated access for SFL learners and slightly different structures of the mental lexicon. Even in very advanced learners, lexical organization and word retrieval in the FL resembles L1 organization.

The main purpose of this study is the subsurface investigation of two complex geological environments focusing on the improvement of data acquisition and processing parameters regarding electric and seismic tomographic techniques. Two different study areas, in central–east Peloponnese and SE Attica, were selected, where detailed geological mapping and surface geophysical survey were carried out. The applied geophysical survey included the application of electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), seismic refraction tomography (SRT) and ground penetrating radar (GPR). The geoelectrical measurements were acquired with different arrays and electrode configurations. Moreover, various types of seismic sources were used at seventeen shot locations along the seismic arrays. For the processing of geoelectrical data, clustered datasets were created, increasing the depth of investigation and discriminatory capability. The seismic data processing included the following: (a) the creation of synthetic models and seismic records to determine the effectiveness and capabilities of the technique, (b) spectral analysis of the seismic records to determine the optimal seismic source type and (c) inversion of the field data to create representative subsurface velocity models. The results of the two techniques successfully delineated the complex subsurface structure that characterizes these two geological environments. The application of the ERT combined with the SRT are the two dominant, high-resolution techniques for the elucidation of complex subsurface structures.

Context. Jets from supermassive black holes at the centers of active galaxies are the most powerful and persistent sources of electromagnetic radiation in the Universe. To infer the physical conditions in the otherwise out-of-reach regions of extragalactic jets, we usually rely on fitting their spectral energy distributions (SEDs). The calculation of radiative models for the jet's non-thermal emission usually relies on numerical solvers of coupled partial differential equations. Aims: In this work, we use machine learning to tackle the problem of high computational complexity to significantly reduce the SED model evaluation time, which is necessary for SED fittings carried out with Bayesian inference methods. Methods: We computed the SEDs based on the synchrotron self-Compton model for blazar emission using the radiation code ATHEvA. We used them to train neural networks (NNs) to explore whether they can replace the original code, which is computationally expensive. Results: We find that a NN with gated recurrent unit neurons (GRUN) can effectively replace the ATHEvA leptonic code for this application, while it can be efficiently coupled with Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) and nested sampling algorithms for fitting purposes. We demonstrate this approach through an application to simulated data sets, as well as a subsequent application to observational data. Conclusions: We present a proof-of-concept application of NNs to blazar science as the first step in a list of future applications involving hadronic processes and even larger parameter spaces. We offer this tool to the community through a public repository. The results of our work are available in GitHub; https://github.com/tzavellas/blazar_ml. This includes: (a) the NN and accompanied code produced to train them, (b) code for visualization of results in python and jupyter notebooks with instructions, and (c) part of the ATHEvA datasets that can be used for evaluation and plotting examples.

In Southeastern Europe, archaeology extends beyond its traditional role as a scientific discipline, assuming a unique function as a medium for shaping alternative knowledge systems. This article explores the complex relationship between archaeology and the crafting of ancestral narratives in the region, illuminating how archaeological interpretations are employed to invent and sustain cultural identities. By analysing a range of archaeological case studies across the Balkans, this study investigates how archaeological evidence is appropriated and reshaped to advance ideological agendas, frequently diverging from established academic consensus. It contends that in Southeastern Europe, archaeology functions as a powerful instrument for legitimising territorial claims and cultural dominance, promoting narratives of continuity and primordial origins that deeply resonate within the collective psyche. Through the selective amplification of certain aspects of the past while marginalising others, archaeological discourse facilitates the construction of mythologised origin stories that reinforce nationalist ideologies and perpetuate historical tensions.

Ocean observing systems in coastal, shelf and marginal seas collect diverse oceanographic information supporting a wide range of socioeconomic needs, but observations are necessarily sparse in space and/or time due to practical limitations. Ocean analysis and forecast systems capitalize on such observations, producing data-constrained, four-dimensional oceanographic fields. Here we review efforts to quantify the impact of ocean observations, observing platforms, and networks of platforms on model products of the physical ocean state in coastal regions. Quantitative assessment must consider a variety of issues including observation operators that sample models, error of representativeness, and correlated uncertainty in observations. Observing System Experiments, Observing System Simulation Experiments, representer functions and array modes, observation impacts, and algorithms based on artificial intelligence all offer methods to evaluate data-based model performance improvements according to metrics that characterize oceanographic features of local interest. Applications from globally distributed coastal ocean modeling systems document broad adoption of quantitative methods, generally meaningful reductions in model-data discrepancies from observation assimilation, and support for assimilation of complementary data sets, including subsurface in situ observation platforms, across diverse coastal environments.

Preserving mitochondrial homeostasis is vital, particularly for the energetically demanding and metabolically active nerve cells. Mitophagy, the selective autophagic removal of mitochondria, stands out as a prominent mechanism for efficient mitochondrial turnover, which is crucial for proper neuronal development and function. Dysfunctional mitochondria and disrupted mitophagy pathways have been linked to a diverse array of neurological disorders. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, with its well-defined nervous system, serves as an excellent model to unravel the intricate involvement of mitophagy in developing neurons. This chapter describes the use of Rosella biosensor in C. elegans to monitor neuronal mitophagy, providing a user-friendly platform for screening genes and drugs affecting mitophagic pathways under physiological conditions or in the context of neurodevelopmental pathologies.

Plastiras artificial lake is formed upstream of an 83 m-high arched dam, at an altitude of 795.20 m above msl. A hydroelectric power plant constructed back in 1959, started functioning in 1960 with an average annual electricity production of 180 GWh. Moreover, its water provides potable supply, after treatment, to surrounding towns and essential agricultural irrigation to 140,000 acres of land. The 23.5 km² lake and its surroundings are extensively used for environmental recreational activities and the local ecosystem is sensitive to human activities and environmental factors.Recently the region was affected by two extreme weather events, in 2020 and 2023, evidently causing extensive mass wasting phenomena in the surrounding drainage basins and torrent discharge points into the lake. Especially after the “IANOS” Medicane (September 17-18, 2020), a systematic monitoring of the lake and its drainage was decided. A synergy of methodologies with state-of-the-art equipment was used, to evaluate the volumes of terrigenous sediment brought into the lake, drastically reducing the water storage capacity of the dam. The reference dataset was a single and multibeam survey carried out back in 2009, accompanied by a photogrammetric mapping of the lake coast at the maximum lake water level.Our 2023 surveys encompass more than 14,000 images which were acquired with a Trinity F90 UAS, flying at a relative height of 160 meters, covering a 200-meter-wide zone around the coast of the lake, with a 70% overlap between the images. Image capturing of the latter took place during the lowest lake water level so that most of this zone would be revealed from the water's surface. The establishment of 15 Ground Control Points (GCPs) at certain locations around the lake increased the spatial credibility of the extracted 2.5 cm resolution Digital Terrain Model. For co-registration reasons, the same GCPs were also used as references during the multibeam survey, which was conducted at transects parallel and vertical to the shoreline routes, 20-90 meters apart, pending on the lake depth, to achieve a complete swath coverage of the lake bottom. The multibeam-sounding survey was carried out at near maximum lake water level, with continuous hourly monitoring of the water level and the water speed of sound.Both methodologies resulted in point-clouds which were unified, and a DTM of the entire lake bottom was constructed, representing the full extent of the water body during the highest water level. The latter was compared to the 2010 dataset and a significant change in the water volume was detected reaching almost 4 million m3. This is clearly related to the volume of sediments brought into the lake, by both sediment gravity flows entering the lake especially within the torrent inlets along the west coast while finer suspended sediment mostly settles in the deepest areas towards the dam.

This chapter presents strategies that teachers can use for preventing and dealing with students' behavior problems in the school community. These strategies are based on behavioral, cognitive behavioral, ecosystemic, and humanistic approaches. The basic premise of this chapter is that the effectiveness of prevention and intervention is enhanced when strategies from all these approaches are used by educators. The basic principles of behavioral, cognitive behavioral, ecosystemic, and humanistic models are briefly presented based on which, management strategies are described that teachers can implement to prevent and deal with children's behaviour problems as well as to increase desirable behaviours. These prevention and intervention programs are delivered at the individual, classroom, whole school, and family levels. Specific examples are given for all these strategies. Finally, two case studies or scenarios are presented with the aim of illuminating the effective use of these strategies in real situations within the school community.

Although parental psychological control has been found to be detrimental to children’s psychological functioning, less is known about the role of internal and external maternal and paternal psychological control in preschoolers’ socio-emotional development. In this cross-sectional, multi-informant study, we rely on the self-determination theory to examine the relations between internal (i.e., guilt induction) and external (i.e., constraining verbal expressions and erratic emotional behavior) mother-reported and father-reported psychological control and preschoolers’ (N = 136; 51.5% males; Mage = 5.53, SD = 0.66 years) externalizing symptoms, internalizing symptoms, and social competence, as reported by their teachers. Regression analyses revealed unique relations between internal and external psychological control and preschoolers’ social-emotional adjustment. While external psychological control related negatively to preschoolers’ social competence and positively to anger-aggression, internal psychological control emerged as the unique predictor of anxiety-withdrawal. Importantly, the results indicated that these findings were consistent for both mothers and fathers. Our findings suggest that parental internal and external psychological control differentially relate to children’s socio-emotional adjustment in early childhood. © The Author(s) 2024.

This paper focuses on the archaeological sub-field of archaeogenetics, and the ways it may be deployed in current political discourse in order to substantiate nationalist claims of heredity as a blood-based relationship. Two case studies are discussed in order to show how, in modern Greece but also elsewhere, antique skeletal remains are seen as national relics as well as cultural icons. This generates a politically charged sort of “DNA archaeology,” only partially involving the ideas or actions of archaeology professionals but strongly affecting public receptions of, and responses to, the past. And this is because archaeogenetic discourse and its results – factual, exaggerated, or plainly fabricated – may be deployed by different stakeholders within contemporary societies in order to mobilize certain parts of the population or exclude others to the point of elimination, by means of their symbolic or even biological death.

Data augmentation is a promising technique in improving exploration and convergence speed in deep reinforcement learning methodologies. In this work, we propose a data augmentation framework based on generative models for creating completely novel states and increasing diversity. For this purpose, a diffusion model is used to generate artificial states (learning the distribution of original, collected states), while an additional model is trained to predict the action executed between two consecutive states. These models are combined to create synthetic data for cases of high and low immediate rewards, which are encountered less frequently during the agent’s interaction with the environment. During the training process, the synthetic samples are mixed with the actually observed data in order to speed up agent learning. The proposed methodology is tested on the Atari 2600 framework, producing realistic and diverse synthetic data which improve training in most cases. Specifically, the agent is evaluated on three heterogeneous games, achieving a reward increase of up to 31%, although the results indicate performance variance among the different environments. The augmentation models are independent of the learning process and can be integrated to different algorithms, as well as different environments, with slight adaptations.

This paper investigates case assignment in prepositional phrases in Ancient Greek and presents evidence that it is determined by the function of the PP and not by the preposition. It is shown that most of the prepositional lexical items involve a root and a formative with prepositional categorizing function, providing evidence for a decomposition approach which suggests that the prepositional lexical item is a morphosyntactic formation that lexicalizes a functional structure which is responsible for its semantic and syntactic properties, including case assignment. This functional structure contains, among others, a categorizing p head, relevant to the lexicalization of the structure by means of a preposition, and a pCASE head, which is responsible for the case assigning properties of the structure. It is also argued that these two heads are distinct from each other as suggested by the way prepositions behave in terms of case assignment in prepositional prefixation constructions.

Bladder cancer (BlCa) is an extensively heterogeneous disease that leads to great variability in tumor evolution scenarios and lifelong patient surveillance, emphasizing the need for modern, minimally invasive precision medicine. Here, we explored the clinical significance of copy number alterations (CNAs) in BlCa. CNA profiling was performed in 15 patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) and validated in The Cancer Genome Atlas BlCa (TCGA-BLCA; n = 408) and Lindgren et al. (n = 143) cohorts. CDKN2A copy number loss was identified as the most frequent CNA in bladder tumors, associated with reduced CDKN2A expression, tumors of a papillary phenotype, and prolonged PDX survival. The study's screening cohort consisted of 243 BlCa patients, and CDKN2A copy number was assessed in genomic DNA and cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from 217 tumors and 189 pre-treatment serum samples, respectively. CDKN2A copy number loss was correlated with superior disease-free and progression-free survival of non-muscle-invasive BlCa (NMIBC) patients. Moreover, a higher CDKN2A index (CDKN2A/LEP ratio) in pre-treatment cfDNA was associated with advanced tumor stage and grade and short-term NMIBC progression to invasive disease, while multivariate models fitted for CDKN2A index in pre-treatment cfDNA offered superior risk stratification of T1/high-grade and EORTC high-risk patients, enhancing prediction of treatment outcome. CDKN2A copy number status could serve as a minimally invasive tool to improve risk stratification and support personalized prognosis in BlCa.

Central precocious puberty (CPP) is a condition where the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis is activated earlier than normal, leading to premature development of secondary sexual characteristics before eight years of age in girls and nine years of age in boys. The purpose of this study was to critically and systematically evaluate the literature regarding CPP rise during the COVID-19 pandemic. We searched PubMed and Google Scholar for relevant articles using the following MeSH terms: "COVID-19, "precocious puberty," "early puberty," "pediatric endocrinology," and "pandemic effects." We included studies calculating the risk of CPP before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. We excluded studies looking at patients with an identifiable cause for CPP or with peripheral precocious puberty. The primary outcome was the prevalence of central precocious puberty during the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period. We analyzed data regarding anthropometric, biochemical, and pelvic ultrasound data between the two groups. Overall, 16 studies with 2.175 subjects were included, of which 1.818 were diagnosed with CPP. There was a rise in the number of new diagnoses of CPP during the COVID-19 pandemic (985 subjects) compared with the pre-pandemic period (833 subjects). The mean age of diagnosis in the first group was 7.42 years versus 7.54 years in the second group. Notably, CPP during the pandemic was associated with a higher body mass index (BMI) compared with the group of the pre-pandemic period (17.50 versus 17.08). The pandemic and lockdowns led to changes in lifestyle habits, social isolation, sleep disturbance, excess screen time, and increased stress levels. We hypothesize that these alterations influenced the increase in CPP frequency.

Through this study, the synergistic behavior of small-molecular-weight, amphiphilic surfactant molecules and the triblock copolymer Pluronic 188 was extensively evaluated based on their ability to formulate nanocarriers with novel properties for the delivery of class II and IV (biopharmaceutical classification system) chemotherapeutic compounds. The combination of four different surfactants at multiple weight ratios and twelve initially formulated nanosystems resulted in four hybrid delivery platforms, which were further studied in terms of multiple physicochemical characteristics, as well as their stability in protein-rich media (fetal bovine serum/phosphate-buffer saline). Finally, we obtained a single final nanoformulation that exhibited a high loading capacity (%EE ≥ 75%) and a sustained drug release profile under physiological conditions (model drug methotrexate), without altering the original physicochemical characteristics of the carrier. With a mean hydrodynamic radius (Rh) of less than 70 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.219, and no protein complexation, the system is a suitable candidate for in vivo, intravenous, and/or intramuscular administration. The cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of both loaded and unloaded carriers were evaluated through the examination of the upregulation or downregulation of apoptosis-related pathways. Multiple conventional 2D and 3D spheroidal conformations were used for these assessments, including HEK293, HCT-116, and MCF-7 cell lines, the results of which stressed the safety and biocompatibility of the empty nanocarrier. Additionally, experiments on Caenorhabditis elegans were conducted to evaluate the system's in vivo toxicity, focusing on developmental stages, egg-laying behavior, and locomotion. Nanosystems studied in terms of chemotherapeutic encapsulation have mostly focused on the physiochemical aspect of the development of such novel delivery platforms, with only few exceptions proceeding step-by-step from cellular 2D to 3D to in vivo experimentation. The present study offers a holistic view of the behavior of such a novel system, advancing our understanding of the capabilities of polymeric/surfactant-based nanodelivery platforms.

Unusual minerals were formed during the retrograde metamorphism of high-pressure metamorphic rocks in the Ochi nappe, southern Evia, Greece, specifically widespread sub-mm-scale talc veins and chromian varieties of chlorite, phengite, biotite and allanite. Albite-quartz-calcite and calcite-quartz schists are cut by common 10–200 μm wide veins of talc, rimmed by Cr-chlorite with <0.6 apfu Cr. Hydraulic fracturing by fluids derived from dehydration of subducted chromite-rich serpentinite in the Ochi nappe created fractures in the schists where talc precipitated. Mineral chemistry and textures are related to regional metamorphic and tectonic phases, which included Eocene blueschist metamorphism followed by Oligocene syn-orogenic wedge extrusion. The overprint resulted in retrograde growth of albite porphyroblasts, emplacement of talc veins, and formation of phengite with <0.08 apfu Cr and later biotite with <0.3 apfu Cr. Late Oligocene shearing flattened many pre-existing minerals. Neogene exhumation within the North Cycladic detachment system produced decompression fractures that nucleated precipitation of allanite (some with <0.4 apfu Cr and > 0.8 apfu REE), apatite, titanite and zircon, reflecting the availability of halogen-rich fluids. The evolution of the retrograde metamorphic minerals assemblages can thus be tracked, with pervasive Cr-Mg infiltration in the Oligocene, and more focussed Miocene metasomatism by halogen-rich fluids.

The "twin birth" of a positron and an electron by a photon in the presence of a nucleus, known as Bethe-Heitler pair production, is a key process in astroparticle physics. The Bethe-Heitler process offers a way of channeling energy stored in a population of relativistic protons (or nuclei) to relativistic pairs with extended distributions. Contrary to accelerated leptons, whose maximum energy is limited by radiative losses, the maximal energy of pairs is determined by the kinematics of the process and can be as high as the parent proton energy. We take a closer look at the features of the injected pair distribution, and provide a novel empirical function that describes the spectrum of pairs produced by interactions of single-energy protons with single-energy photons. The function is the kernel of the Bethe-Heitler pair production spectrum that replaces a double numerical integration involving the complex differential cross section of the process, and can be easily implemented in numerical codes. We further examine under which conditions Bethe-Heitler pairs produced in blazar jets can emit γ-ray photons via synchrotron radiation, thus providing an alternative to the inverse Compton scattering process for high-energy emission in jetted active galactic nuclei. For this purpose, we create 36 numerical models using the code ATHEνA optimized so that the Bethe-Heitler synchrotron emission dominates their γ-ray emission. After taking into consideration the broadband spectral characteristics of the source, the jet energetics, and the properties of radiation fields present in the blazar environment, we conclude that γ-rays in high-synchrotron-peaked blazars are unlikely to be produced by Bethe-Heitler pairs, because the emitting region is found to be opaque in photon-photon pair production at photon energies ≳ 10 GeV. On the contrary, γ-ray spectra of low-synchrotron-peaked blazars may arise from Bethe-Heitler pairs in regions of the jet with typical transverse size ∼ 1015 – 1016 cm and co-moving magnetic field 50 – 500 G. For such cases, an external thermal target photon field with temperatures T ∼ 4 · 102– 6 · 103 K is needed. The latter values could point to the dusty torus of the AGN. Interestingly, a Bethe-Heitler-dominated high-energy component is mostly found in models of intermediate-synchrotron peaked blazars, for a wide range of magnetic fields and source radii.

OBJECTIVES: An increasing number of women living with HIV are transitioning through midlife and menopause. Women living with HIV may experience earlier menopause and a higher symptom burden than women without HIV, but more evidence is needed. Data collection on menopause in women living with HIV is scarce and often not standardized. We sought to assess how menopause data are collected in cohorts and studies of women living with HIV. METHODS: This was a literature review conducted within the PubMed database. We included original studies and cohorts assessing menopause and/or menopausal symptoms in women living with HIV. Study characteristics and menopause data collection, including the definition of menopause, symptom assessment tools, and measurement of biomedical parameters, were noted and summarized systematically in data tables. RESULTS: We included 40 articles describing 37 separate studies published between 2000 and 2023; 27 of these were conducted in high-income countries, the majority in the USA (n = 16). Ten studies were from low- and middle-income countries; four of these were conducted in Brazil. In 20 studies, menopause was defined according to the World Health Organization's definition of over 12 months of amenorrhea. Twelve studies used the Menopause Rating Scale to characterize menopausal symptoms, five studies used other specified symptom assessment tools, and 12 studies used a study-specific tool. CONCLUSIONS: Menopause data collection in women living with HIV is heterogeneous. We propose that standardized tools should be used to enable comparisons between studies and countries, thereby improving the quality of research and clinical treatment. Further research into the validity of menopausal symptom scoring tools is warranted.

A combination of the results of several searches for the electroweak production of the supersymmetric partners of standard model bosons, and of charged leptons, is presented. All searches use proton-proton collision data at √s = 13 TeV recorded with the CMS detector at the LHC in 2016-2018. The analyzed data correspond to an integrated luminosity of up to 137/fb. The results are interpreted in terms of simplified models of supersymmetry. Two new interpretations are added with this combination: a model spectrum with the bino as the lightest supersymmetric particle together with mass-degenerate higgsinos decaying to the bino and a standard model boson, and the compressed-spectrum region of a previously studied model of slepton pair production. Improved analysis techniques are employed to optimize sensitivity for the compressed spectra in the wino and slepton pair production models. The results are consistent with expectations from the standard model. The combination provides a more comprehensive coverage of the model parameter space than the individual searches, extending the exclusion by up to 125 GeV, and also targets some of the intermediate gaps in the mass coverage.

Although there is extensive research on the adulthood criteria endorsed by emerging adults, there is very limited evidence on the comparison between emerging adults and their parents regarding this issue. Moreover, in these comparison studies, only quantitative methodology was used. Therefore, the present study uses a mixed-method design to investigate similarities and differences in the prevalence of the endorsed adulthood criteria between emerging adults and their parents, between male and female emerging adults, and between fathers and mothers. Participants were 251 emerging adult students, aged 18.0 to 25.9 (M = 19.9; 50.2% females), and 341 parents of these emerging adults, aged 33.6 to 61.9 (M = 50.4; 58.4% mothers). They completed the Markers of Adulthood Scale and named the three criteria that they considered most important for a person to be considered an adult. An inductive-deductive coding scheme was used. The analyses exhibited a high consensus between emerging adults and their parents in the endorsement of adulthood criteria. Only criteria related to Independence and to the Self were reported more frequently by emerging adults than their parents. A strong agreement between genders in both age groups was also found. The contribution of this study is twofold. First, it supports the idea that in Greece adulthood is a construct that is largely shared by emerging adults and their parents. Second, it illustrates how a mixed-method design can complement quantitative studies and extend their findings.

Survivin belongs to a family of proteins that promote cellular proliferation and inhibit cellular apoptosis. Its overexpression in various cancer types has led to its recognition as an important marker for cancer diagnosis and treatment. In this work, we compare two approaches for the immunochemical detection of survivin through surface-enhanced fluorescence or Raman spectroscopy using surfaces with nanowires decorated with silver nanoparticles in the form of dendrites or aggregates as immunoassays substrates. In both substrates, a two-step non-competitive immunoassay was developed using a pair of specific monoclonal antibodies, one for detection and the other for capture. The detection antibody was biotinylated and combined with streptavidin labeled with rhodamine for the detection of surface-enhanced fluorescence, while, for the detection via Raman spectroscopy, streptavidin labeled with peroxidase was used and the signal was obtained after the application of 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) precipitating substrate. It was found that the substrate with the silver dendrites provided higher fluorescence signal intensity compared to the substrate with the silver aggregates, while the opposite was observed for the Raman signal. Thus, the best substrate was used for each detection method. A detection limit of 12.5 pg/mL was achieved with both detection approaches along with a linear dynamic range up to 500 pg/mL, enabling survivin determination in human serum samples from both healthy and ovarian cancer patients for cancer diagnosis and monitoring purposes.

OBJECTIVE: The digitalization of our daily living has changed dramatically the internet and digital media use among all ages. However, children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to potential dangers and addiction risks. Our objective was to evaluate the computer and internet addiction levels in children and adolescents through their parents' reports. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the region of Megara (Attica, Greece) for two months (September-November 2022). In total, 205 parents (74 fathers, 131 mothers) of school-age children participated, completing the study questionnaire (demographic data and the Adolescent Computer Addiction Scale - parental version (20 items in a 1-5 Likert Scale). RESULTS:  Based on the addiction scale score, only 2.45% (N=5) of the parents rated high scores indicating serious addictive behaviors regarding internet use. The majority were parents of boys (58%) and the mean age of children was 10.92±2.81years (five to 18 years). According to parental reports, the mean age of primary access to a computer or device with internet access was 7.18±2.29 years (two to 13 years). Regarding internet use, 58.5% of the children had access to the internet via smartphone, used the internet one to two hours/day (46.1%), and 62% of children had internet access in their bedroom. Children whose parents used the internet more than five hours/day displayed a greater addiction (F=3.06, df=3.187, p=0.03). A significant positive correlation was also found among children age (r=0.388, p<0.01), computer and internet availability in children's bedrooms, and internet addiction (t=4.43, df=189, p≤0.001 and t=3.88, df=189, p≤0.001, respectively). In summary, parents reported moderate or severe addiction in 7.2% of boys and 5.1% of girls. However, it should be noted that the exact cut-off points were difficult to determine due to a lack of objective criteria for diagnosing addiction severity. CONCLUSIONS: The levels of addiction in our study according to the parents' reports were limited and only a small number of parents reported highly addictive behaviors. However, there is a direct correlation between increased parental internet use that can significantly increase children's addiction levels. Parents act as role models that may increase children's exposure to the internet and lead to addiction.

The contribution of surface and lateral forcing to the observed Arabian Gulf warming trends is studied based on the results of a high-resolution (1/100°, 60 vertical layers) MIT general circulation model (MITgcm) covering the period 1993-2021. The model validation against available observations reveals that the simulation satisfactorily reproduces the main features of the Arabian Gulf's dynamics and their variability. We show that the heat content of the Arabian Gulf generally follows the reported variability of sea surface temperature, with significant increasing trends of 0.1 × 10 7 J m −3 and 0.2°C per decade. The interannual variability of the heat content is dominated by the surface heat fluxes, while the long-term warming of the basin is primarily driven by lateral fluxes. The analyses of the heat exchanges through the Strait of Hormuz indicate a pronounced upward trend in the transported heat toward the Arabian Gulf, which is associated with an increase in both the volume and temperature of the exchanged waters. Considering the inflow and outflow in the Strait separately, the temperature increase is more prominent in the inflowing waters; however, the dominant factor driving the rising trend in heat content exchanges is the increase in the volume of waters being exchanged. This implies that the observed warming of the Arabian Gulf during the investigated period is directly related to the acceleration of its overturning circulation.

The synthesis of thiazolines, thiazolidines, and thiazolidinones has been extensively studied, due to their biological activity related to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, as well as their antiparasitic and antihypertensive properties. The closely related thiazolidin-2-imines have been studied less, and efficient strategies for synthesizing them, mainly based on the reaction of propargylamines with isothiocyanates, have been explored less. The use of one-pot approaches, providing modular, straightforward, and sustainable access to these compounds, has also received very little attention. Herein, we report a novel, one-pot, multicomponent, copper-catalyzed reaction among primary amines, ketones, terminal alkynes, and isothiocyanates, toward thiazolidin-2-imines bearing quaternary carbon centers on the five-membered ring, in good to excellent yields. Density functional theory calculations, combined with experimental mechanistic findings, suggest that the copper(I)-catalyzed reaction between the in situ-formed propargylamines and isothiocyanates proceeds with a lower energy barrier in the pathway leading to the S-cyclized product, compared to that of the N-cyclized one, toward the chemo- and regioselective formation of 5-exo-dig S-cyclized thiazolidin-2-imines.

The Eastern Anatolia suffered devastation following two major earthquakes on 6 February 2023 causing collapse of numerous structures and resulting in tens of thousands of human casualties, injuries, and displacements. This research endeavors to elucidate factors related to building properties and earthquake environmental effects (EEEs) that control the grade and distribution of structural damage in southeastern Turkey. The outcomes delineated herein originate from post-event field surveys conducted by the authors shortly after the earthquakes. The field surveys encompassed geological mapping techniques alongside novel methodologies, such as the utilization of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).In terms of building construction characteristics, deficiencies such as inadequate compliance with building codes, arbitrary urban planning solutions, and inferior construction practices represent primary factors that contributes significantly to the disaster. Regarding geological factors, both primary and secondary EEEs played a significant role in controlling the severity and distribution of building damage. Primary EEEs, in particular coseismic surface ruptures along segments of the East Anatolian Fault (EAF), intersected with urban regions exhibited severe to severe structural damage (e.g. Gölbaşı, Balkar, Sekeroba, Nurdağı, İslahiye, Hassa towns etc.). Liquefaction along with lateral spreading and subsidence near water bodies (sea, existing and former lakes and rivers in the affected area) resulted in damage indicative of compromised building foundation load-bearing capacity (e.g. İskenderun, Gölbaşı and Antakya cities). Typical damage included sinking and tilting of buildings, damage due to pounding of adjacent structures, as well as outspread multi-layer and pancake-type collapse. Earthquake-triggered landslides (ETILs) predominantly affected mountainous and semi-mountainous villages. The collision of the mobilized rock fragments with adjacent structures and the presence of structures within the landslide boundaries are the main mechanisms of building damage due to ETILs. The synergy of high landslide susceptibility and liquefaction potential resulted in destruction in several urban centers of the earthquake-affected area (e.g. Kahramanmaraş city).

Numerous people are applying for bank loans as a result of the banking industry’s expansion, but because banks only have a certain amount of assets to lend to, they can only do so to a certain number of applicants. Therefore, the banking industry is very interested in finding ways to reduce the risk factor involved in choosing the safe applicant in order to save lots of bank resources. These days, machine learning greatly reduces the amount of work needed to choose the safe applicant. Taking this into account, a novel weights and structure determination (WASD) neural network has been built to meet the aforementioned two challenges of credit approval and loan approval, as well as to handle the unique characteristics of each. Motivated by the observation that WASD neural networks outperform conventional back-propagation neural networks in terms of sluggish training speed and being stuck in local minima, we created a bio-inspired WASD algorithm for binary classification problems (BWASD) for best adapting to the credit or loan approval model by utilizing the metaheuristic beetle antennae search (BAS) algorithm to improve the learning procedure of the WASD algorithm. Theoretical and experimental study demonstrate superior performance and problem adaptability. Furthermore, we provide a complete MATLAB package to support our experiments together with full implementation and extensive installation instructions.

A CTD/ADCP/surface-drifter survey in fall 2004 reveals the behaviour of a mesoscale unidirectional flow coming from the Cretan sea in the south with depths ∼1000 m and entering a channel-like area of the Cycladic shelf in the north, that forms a contraction which leads to a bottom elevation (sill depth ∼100 m), and finally returning into the Cretan Sea in the lee-side of the sill. The flow decelerates/accelerates upstream/downstream of the sill. The along-stream density contours near the sill bottom are raised prior to reaching the sill, while they deepen in the lee side of it indicating supercriticality. The long-wavelength internal wave speeds with realistic stratification and no-rotation are higher than the section averaged flow speeds and indicate subcriticality. A key element in this apparent paradox is the large height of the sill that potentially increases the body (drag) force exerted on the flow by the sill while flow blocking is also observed upstream of the sill.

An X-ray outburst was recently detected by the Einstein Probe mission and designated EP J0052.9-7230 (ATel #16631). Swift's S-CUBED survey (Kennea et al. 2018) then localized the event to the X-ray source CXOU J005245.0-722844 and noted that the soft spectrum is consistent with a Be X-ray binary (BeXRB) system with a white dwarf as the compact object (ATel #16633).

The largest part of earthquake debris is generated by the collapse during the strong ground motion and the urgent demolition of severely damaged structures during the emergency response and recovery. One of the first and most significant actions during the response and recovery phases is the management of the disaster debris. It constitutes one of the most important challenges for all involved in disaster management, as it poses significant hazards to both the environment and the public health in the affected area. The hazards are attributed to the occurrence of hazardous materials in collapse and demolition debris.Many such challenges and related hazards emerged in the southeastern Türkiye in early February 2023, when two major earthquakes of magnitude 7.8 and 7.5 struck a densely built-up area comprising 11 provinces with many large urban centers such as large cities and towns and extensive rural areas with countless villages.The synergy of the strong ground motion combined with the generation of extensive primary effects, such as coseismic surface ruptures, and the triggering of secondary effects, including liquefaction and landslides among others, resulted in tens of thousands of totally and partially collapsed buildings and large parts of residential areas being flattened. This fact led to a volume of debris considered as the largest since the 1994 Northridge earthquake, an earthquake debris volume difficult to manage even in organized countries.During post-event field surveys conducted by the authors in the affected area, several disposal sites set up in the most affected provinces were detected and checked for suitability. The field surveys comprised the deployment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in the disaster field and the use of satellite imagery back in the laboratory for assessing properties of sites and their surrounding areas as well as for monitoring implemented debris management activities. It is concluded that all sites had characteristics that did not allow them to be classified as safe sites for earthquake debris treatment and disposal. This is mainly attributed to their proximity to areas, where thousands of people live and work on a daily basis. As regards the environmental impact, these sites were operating within or close to surface water bodies. This situation reveals a rush for rapid debris removal and recovery resulting in serious omissions in the preparation of disaster management plans and concessions in their implementation. In this context, effective debris management measures are also proposed: (i) sorting of hazardous materials, (ii) appropriate treatment for chemicals and heavy metals, (iii) 3R (reuse, reduce, recycle) activities, (iv) systematic monitoring of environmental parameters and hazardous substances, (v) storage in sites with safe operation standards, (vi) strict application of international best practices and procedures for limiting asbestos adverse effects on public health.

Disasters arising from geophysical hazards have the potential to trigger extensive structural damage upon the built environment within the impacted area. A substantial proportion of debris generated from earthquakes is a consequence of structural collapse during the ground motion, coupled with the urgent demolition of severely damaged and unstable structures in the course of emergency response and recovery. Among the foremost and pivotal measures undertaken during disaster management is the effective management of the generated debris. This task stands as one of the paramount challenges faced by those involved, given its inherent hazards to both the natural environment and public health. These hazards emanate from the presence of hazardous materials within debris from collapses and demolitions.Numerous challenges and associated hazards emerged in southeastern Turkey after two devastating earthquakes on 6 February 2023 with Mw=7.8 and Mw=7.5 respectively. These seismic events affected a densely populated region encompassing 11 provinces, which included numerous sizable urban centers, such as large cities and towns, along with extensive rural areas comprising countless villages.The convergence of intense ground motion, accompanied by the occurrence of widespread primary effects, such as coseismic surface ruptures, and the triggering of secondary effects, including mainly but not limited to liquefaction and landslides, culminated in the total or partial collapse of tens of thousands of structures and the extensive leveling of residential areas. This fact gave rise to a debris volume deemed the largest since the 1994 Northridge earthquake and challenging to manage, even within well-organized nations.In the course of post-event field surveys conducted by the authors within the earthquake-stricken area, various disposal sites established in the most severely affected provinces were identified and assessed for suitability. The field surveys included the utilization of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in the disaster-affected areas, complemented by the examination of satellite imagery in the laboratory to evaluate the characteristics of the sites and their immediate surroundings and to monitor the ongoing debris management activities.The findings indicate that none of the identified sites possessed attributes qualifying them as safe for the treatment and disposal of earthquake debris. Primarily, this inadequacy is attributed to their close proximity to areas densely populated with thousands of residents who engage in daily activities. Furthermore, from the environmental viewpoint, these sites operated either within or in close proximity to surface water bodies. This situation reveals a rush for rapid debris removal and recovery resulting in serious omissions in the preparation of disaster management plans and concessions in their implementation. Consequently, recommendations for effective debris management measures are also proposed in the context of this research based on existing scientific knowledge and operational expertise.

The concept of more electric aircraft (MEA) has gained popularity over the last few decades. As the power level of electric loads is constantly increasing, the installation of advanced protection systems becomes of paramount importance. In this context, this paper presents the design process and experimental validation of a solid-state circuit breaker (SSCB), utilizing gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductor switches, under various faulty conditions. In addition, a thermal analysis was carried out in the PLECS simulation platform to find the most appropriate design for the heat dissipation system. Experimental results on the developed GaN SSCB hardware prototype verify its functionality and good performance.

Since the initial data taking of the CERN LHC, the CMS experiment has undergone substantial upgrades and improvements. This paper discusses the CMS detector as it is configured for the third data-taking period of the CERN LHC, Run 3, which started in 2022. The entire silicon pixel tracking detector was replaced. A new powering system for the superconducting solenoid was installed. The electronics of the hadron calorimeter was upgraded. All the muon electronic systems were upgraded, and new muon detector stations were added, including a gas electron multiplier detector. The precision proton spectrometer was upgraded. The dedicated luminosity detectors and the beam loss monitor were refurbished. Substantial improvements to the trigger, data acquisition, software, and computing systems were also implemented, including a new hybrid CPU/GPU farm for the high-level trigger.

This paper analyzes the impact of the European economy digitalization on the financial performance of the European SMEs during COVID-19. Using a panel data from 2017 to 2022 of 12,179 European SMEs and a European transformed digitalization index, we find that financial performance of SMEs is significantly and negatively associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Digitalization of the European economy significantly increases SMEs’ financial performance measured by various performance measurements and mediates the COVID-19 negative effect. Digitalization is more significant during COVID-19 era compared to the pre-pandemic period. Our results are robust to alternative performance measures.

Membrane proteins are sorted to the plasma membrane (PM) via Golgi-dependent trafficking. However, our recent studies challenged the essentiality of Golgi in the biogenesis of specific transporters. Here, we investigate the trafficking mechanisms of membrane proteins by following the localization of the polarized R-SNARE SynA versus the non-polarized transporter UapA, synchronously co-expressed in wild-type or isogenic genetic backgrounds repressible for conventional cargo secretion. In wild-type, the two cargoes dynamically label distinct secretory compartments, highlighted by the finding that, unlike SynA, UapA does not colocalize with the late-Golgi. In line with early partitioning into distinct secretory carriers, the two cargoes collapse in distinct ERES in a background. Trafficking via distinct cargo-specific carriers is further supported by showing that repression of proteins essential for conventional cargo secretion does not affect UapA trafficking, while blocking SynA secretion. Overall, this work establishes the existence of distinct, cargo-dependent, trafficking mechanisms, initiating at ERES and being differently dependent on Golgi and SNARE interactions.

On September 4, 2023, Storm Daniel moved inland from the Ionian Sea, intensifying due to the warmth of the post-summer Mediterranean Sea, resulting in intense rainfall and thunderstorms over the Balkans. Central Greece was particularly affected, experiencing the highest daily rainfall totals recorded in the region.The storm caused widespread devastation, especially in the Thessaly region, with significant impacts including intense erosion, mass movement phenomena triggered by rainfall, damages from strong winds, inundation, agricultural land damage, loss of life and injuries, impacts on residences and businesses, as well as a substantial toll on the environment and cultural sites.This study focuses on Storm Daniel and its effects in Thessaly, Greece, by creating a database of distinct impact elements based on field surveys and public records. Through this archive, the study explores the range of its impacts, developing a systematic categorization to provide an in-depth understanding of the types and mechanisms of these impacts.Examining extreme storms through post-flood surveys and emphasizing their impacts can enhance our comprehension of associated risks. This knowledge will facilitate more accurate predictions and strategic planning for such events, contributing to improved emergency management and recovery efforts. Anticipating the impacts becomes crucial, particularly in the context of the projected increase in the frequency of such events due to climate change, thereby strengthening our preparedness.

Several studies have evaluated different versions of the Inventory of Personality Organization (IPO) around the world and some shortened versions of the instrument have also been constructed. The aim of this study was to develop the first brief Greek-language version of the IPO (IPO-Brief-GR) to be used for clinical screening and research purposes regarding personality pathology defined according to Kernberg's object relations model of personality organization. Data were collected from a community sample of 543 Greek emerging adults aged 18–29 years (M = 21.45, SD = 2.51) with the 83-item IPO, from which a 30-item version was constructed, based on confirmatory factor analysis of the full measure. The psychometric properties of the IPO-Brief-GR were then examined. Confirmatory factor analyses indicated that a four-factor structure best fitted the data, that is, primitive defenses/identity diffusion, reality testing, aggression, and moral values. Criterion validity and internal consistency reliability were also supported. Measurement invariance across gender using an exact protocol approach (i.e., configural, metric, scalar) was found allowing latent mean comparisons. These preliminary findings support the reliability and validity of the IPO-Brief-GR for the assessment of borderline personality organization and indicate the need for further research into the psychometric properties and clinical utility of this measure.

The work is part of a larger project of teaching interdisciplinary teaching of physics concepts in biology within the science education class. It concerns the application of a thought experiment (ThE) about the movement of water in tracheophytes under different gravity conditions, i.e., the behavior of plants on another planet, forexample the Moon or Mars. The ThE was designed and implemented in a science class of 25 students who were instructed to perform it in a simulation environment using a software file that we created with the help of Interactive Physics software. The evaluation of the ThE carried out with a written questionnaire showed that theuse of such educational procedures can significantly help students to better understand the concepts related to capillary phenomena, the way water is transported to plants from roots to leaves and, generally, to contribute tothe interdisciplinary teaching of physics concepts in modules related to the teaching of biological phenomena and functions.

The Pomegranate: the magazine for children (To Rodi: to periodiko gia paidia) was a highly popular Greek children’s magazine that was in circulation during the last two decades of the 20th century and still holds a prominent position in Greek children’s literature. In this paper, we attempted to index and classify the literary and non-literary texts that were included in this magazine during its first edition, from December 1977 to December 1982. The analysis of these texts highlighted the wide range of literary genres that were included in the magazine, as well as the wide range of topics they covered. The texts were classified into 22 thematic categories, among which those appearing with the highest frequency were the following: “History and homeland”, “Books and magazines”, “Child and child experiences”, “Environment and ecology”, and “Ethics and virtues”. The relevance of these thematic categories to the aims of the magazine, to the developmental needs of young readers and to the Greek historical context of the late 20th century is also discussed. The magazine made a significant contribution, both quantitatively and qualitatively, in Greek children’s literature. Through this magazine, remarkable literary works came to the fore. The magazine undoubtedly enhanced children’s and adolescents’ love of reading and promoted the development of their identity as readers.

Motivated by the increasing demand for alternative assets that can contribute to reducing portfolio risk under inflationary environments, this paper examines the volatility spillovers between collateralized loan obligations (CLOs) and various assets used for protection against inflation, including equities, bonds, crude oil, commodities, gold, bitcoin, shipping and real estate. The applied methodology comprehends the time-varying parameter vector autoregressive (TVP-VAR) model of Antonakakis et al (2020), which relies on the classical Diebold and Yilmaz (2012) approach, for the period from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2021. The empirical findings show moderate levels of dynamic connectedness; albeit several external shocks, such as the oil price plummet, the US-China trade war and COVID-19, strengthened the interconnection among the assets. Equities, commodities, bitcoin, real estate and gold form the net senders of spillovers, whereas bonds, shipping, CLOs and crude oil absorb the spread shocks. Moreover, we evaluate the hedging ability of CLOs within a portfolio of inflation hedges by estimating hedge ratios and optimal weights by utilizing conditional variance estimations (DCC). Our results indicate that CLOs possess impeccable hedging ability, as the short position in their volatility provides high hedging effectiveness for all investors holding long-positions in the volatility of the remaining assets. Our analysis highlights the importance of CLOs and their relevance to portfolio diversification.

Kalymnos Island features extensive vertical limestone cliffs that span throughout the entire onshore area, establishing it as one of the world's premier locations for sports climbing. Drawing thousands of tourists and climbers annually, Kalymnos captivates with its unparalleled natural beauty and unique geomorphological relief. The absence of vegetation and the prevalence of large limestone vertical cliffs contribute to a distinctive geological setting, showcasing detached boulders throughout the island and positioning it as an ideal site for studying rockfall events worldwide. To investigate this peculiar geological landscape, contemporary close-range remote sensing techniques such as UAS images photogrammetric processing, terrestrial LiDAR point clouds, and high-resolution satellite imagery within a GIS platform are employed. This integrated approach facilitates the creation of detailed terrain models and enables the identification of spatial boulder distribution on the downslope areas of steep carbonate cliffs. Moreover, the diachronic study of the detected high-risk locations delineated the surface changes at the foot of the steep slopes where several back analyses were performed. Utilizing these quantitative techniques provides valuable information for designing protective measures for the stability of the slopes, highlighting the safe climbing routes for the athletes and the infrastructure at the cliff bases. Strategies involve anchoring individual rock blocks, removing unsafe rock masses, and implementing restraining nets or dynamic rockfall barriers at strategic locations along the route trail to mitigate risks effectively.

Federations of Infrastructure Service Providers (InfSPs) has emerged as a practice to successfully serve demanding applications in cloud- and edge-computing environments, by overcoming the limitations of each such provider (in terms of available resources, geographic coverage etc.). In this paper, we develop innovative effective mechanisms and policies for the decentralized management of InfSP federations, considering the needs both for resource allocation meeting service composition requirements and for performing a fair and efficient distribution of profits. Resource allocation is performed by means of a greedy algorithm that includes an opportunistic and an adjustment phase. For determining the payments of participating InfSPs, we introduce an innovative sealed-bid reverse auction that combines VCG and first-price auction mechanisms; these are coupled with a sophisticated federation wallet management mechanism serving as a sink for the federation revenues. This hybrid mechanism possesses several nice properties including efficiency, long-term budget balance, truthfulness and individual rationality. Moreover, we present how our solution can be implemented in a decentralized, privacy-preserving and trustworthy manner over a blockchain, achieving bid privacy, non-repudiation and public verifiability. Our approach is evaluated by means of extensive experiments, the results of which reveal that resource allocation is either optimal or very close thereto, while individual InfSP profits as well as total federation profits are maximized. Moreover, the results confirm that the VCG mechanism alone cannot guarantee budget balance, thus justifying the necessity for our hybrid sophisticated solution.

The edited volume Popular Music of the Greek World is a novel addition to the growing corpus of publications  that bring popular musicking in central focus, both from a musicological and a sociocultural perspective. The book embraces an emphasis on the historical component of popular music focusing on the trajectories, mobilities and transformations of music genres throughout the 20th century. Historical emphasis is put into dialogue with ethnographic approaches, some of which exceed the borders of the modern Greek state.

Given the increasing importance of adjusting to university life and achieving happiness, identifying the effective role of emotional intelligence and psychological needs’ satisfaction in enhancing students’ well-being is crucial. This study investigated the relation between emotional intelligence, psychological need satisfaction, and university students’ happiness. Data were collected from 205 university students (mean age: 23.35; predominantly female) at the University of Crete. Participants completed the Emotional Intelligence Scale, the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire, and the Basic Psychological Needs Satisfaction Scale. The analysis began with a correlation matrix to explore preliminary relations among the key variables. A multiple-linear regression analysis was then conducted to predict happiness levels based on observed correlations. Following this, a multiple-mediation analysis examined how emotional intelligence affects happiness through psychological needs satisfaction. The results indicated a positive association between emotional intelligence and happiness, with psychological needs’ satisfaction also positively correlating with happiness. Specifically, the use and regulation of emotion, competence, and autonomy significantly predicted happiness. Path analysis revealed that emotional intelligence indirectly influences happiness, particularly through competence. The results indicate that high emotional intelligence, through the satisfaction of basic psychological needs, is significantly associated with university students’ happiness. The study suggests that institutions should guide students in emotional intelligence and competence to increase happiness during their studies.

The present paper addresses employment and occupational prospects in Greece, in the period 2011-2022, highlighting the dynamic, stagnant and declining occupations and it also  addresses employment and occupational prospects in the near future (2022-2030). The role that Lifelong Learning  can play in an environment of abrupt changes is also discussed. The study reveals that in the period 2011-2022, the total employment rates in Greece increased by 1.0%, with the creation of 43,002 new jobs. A large number of jobs was created for general and keyboard clerks, health professionals and information and communication technology professionals but on the other hand, a large number of jobs were destructed. Therefore, the employment and occupational prospects in Greece in the near future require further attention. The estimates presented in this paper concern the time period 2022-2030, in a two-digit occupation code and they are derived from the application of the Oxford model (Oxford Global Economic Model - GEM), which is managed by NKUA, in the framework of its eLearning program. In this time period, according to relevant estimates, the total employment rates in Greece are expected to decrease by 3.4%, with a loss of 143,998 jobs in total. This negative development, that is expected to take place in an environment of increased production (estimates of the Oxford model), indicate a paradox that is  a period of economic growth which is not followed by the creation of new jobs (jobless growth). In light of this evidence, employment and occupational prospects and Lifelong learning are interlinked and often considered a favored topic for researchers, practitioners, policy makers and politicians. As occupations, dynamic, stagnant or declining, include certain tasks and skills, their evolution (and mainly in the dynamic ones) provide the necessary information areas in which long term strategy of Lifelong Learning should target. However, there seems to be a distance between policy, strategy and action. The paper suggests a more careful mapping of the job market, the lifelong learning programmes and the trainees’ prospective profiles. It also addresses the need to focus on those who rarely participate in lifelong learning programmes and are considered to also be the dropout rates from formal educational processes.

Forthcoming (cite as):  Kamberidou, Irene (2024). Engendering Technology in the Digital Age: Women’s Agency, Entrepreneurship and Multitasking Whirlpool. Presentation at the international conference Politics of Technologies in the Digital Age, Nov. 21-23, 2024. Organizers: University of Ioannina (Department of Philosophy), the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (Department of Sociology), and Ionian University (Department of History): https://politicsoftechnologies.org/ https://pergamos.lib.uoa.gr/uoa/dl/object/3420001   

It is well established that the preoperative nutritional status of gastric cancer (GC) patients significantly affects the prognosis of the operated patients, their overall survival, as well as the disease-specific survival. Existing data support that preoperative assessment of nutritional status and early correction of nutritional deficiencies exert a favorable effect on early postoperative outcomes. A variety of relevant indices are used to assess the nutritional status of GC patients who are candidates for surgery. The guidelines of almost all international organizations recommend the use of oral enteral nutrition (EN). Oncologically acceptable types of gastrectomy and methods of patient rehabilitation should take into account the expected postoperative nutritional status. The majority of data support that perioperative EN reduces complications and hospital stay, but not mortality. Oral EN in the postoperative period, albeit in small amounts, helps to reduce the weight loss that is a consequence of gastrectomy. Iron deficiency with or without anemia and low serum levels of vitamin B12 are common metabolic sequelae after gastrectomy and should be restored. EN also significantly helps patients undergoing neoadjuvant or adjuvant antineoplastic therapy. The occurrence of the so-called "postgastrectomy syndromes" requires dietary modifications and drug support. This review attempts to highlight the benefits of EN in GC patients undergoing gastrectomy and to emphasize the type of necessary nutritional management, based on current literature data.

Context. During four all-sky surveys (eRASS1-4), eROSITA, the soft X-ray instrument aboard Spektrum-Roentgen-Gamma (SRG) detected a new supersoft X-ray source, eRASSU J060839.5−704014, in the direction of the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC). Aims: We arranged follow-up observations in the X-ray and optical wavelengths and further searched in archival observations to reveal the nature of the object. Methods: Using X-ray observations with XMM-Newton we investigated the temporal and spectral behaviour of the source. Results: We discover pulsations at 374 s with a pulse profile consistent with 100% modulation. We identify two other periodicities in the eROSITA data, which we establish as aliases due to the sampling of the eROSITA light curve. We identify a multi-wavelength counterpart to the X-ray source in UVW1 and g, r, i, and z images obtained by the optical/UV monitor on XMM-Newton and the Dark Energy Camera at the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory. The timing and spectral characteristics of the source are consistent with a double degenerate ultra-compact binary system in the foreground of the LMC. eRASSU J060839.5−704014 belongs to a rare class of AM CVns, which are important to study in the context of progenitors of SN Ia and for persistent gravitational wave detection. Conclusions: We identify eRASSU J060839.5−704014 as a new double degenerate ultra-compact binary located in the foreground of the LMC. Based on observations obtained with XMM-Newton, an ESA science mission with instruments and contributions directly funded by ESA Member States and NASA.

Context. During four all-sky surveys (eRASS1--4), eROSITA, the soft X-ray instrument aboard Spektrum-Roentgen-Gamma (SRG) detected a new supersoft X-ray source, eRASSU J060839.5-704014, in the direction of the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC). Methods. We arranged follow-up observations in the X-ray and optical wavelengths and further searched in archival observations to reveal the nature of the object. Results. We discover pulsations at ~374 s with a pulse profile consistent with 100% modulation. We identify two other periodicities in the eROSITA data, which we establish as aliases due to the sampling of the eROSITA light curve. We identify a multi-wavelength counterpart to the X-ray source in UVW1 and g, r, i, and z images obtained by the optical/UV monitor on XMM-Newton and the Dark Energy Camera at the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory. The timing and spectral characteristics of the source are consistent with a double degenerate ultra-compact binary system in the foreground of the LMC. eRASSU J060839.5-704014 belongs to a rare class of AM CVns, which are important to study in the context of progenitors of SN Ia and for persistent gravitational wave detection. Conclusions. We identify eRASSU J060839.5-704014 as a new double degenerate ultra-compact binary located in the foreground of the LMC.

El estudio examina los estereotipos culturales sobre España entre aprendices griegos de español, evaluando si reflejan la realidad actual española y su alcance global. Para ello, se aplica una prueba de disponibilidad léxica a estudiantes griegos de nivel B2, analizando sus respuestas sobre "España" en dos niveles. Primero, se examinan las respuestas más disponibles según su grado de novedad para comprobar si representan el pasado o la realidad actual española. Luego, se comparan los vocablos más disponibles de los estudiantes griegos con las respuestas de participantes de otros estudios de diferentes nacionalidades para determinar si son estereotipos localizados o globalizados. Los resultados indican que la mayoría de los estudiantes griegos ven a España de forma estereotipada y tradicional, y que esta visión es global.

Although Schema Therapy has emerged as an effective treatment for a large range of psychopathology, there is limited research on its effectiveness with children and adolescents, especially for preventive purposes, in individual or group settings and with the involvement of parents. Therefore, the aim of this study was to conduct a preliminary evaluation of a newly developed group prevention program based on Schema Therapy (rationale, principles, and techniques) for children and their parents. It is a psychoeducational, developmentally-appropriate program addressing core emotional needs, early maladaptive schemas, schema modes, coping styles, and parent-child relationship with the aim of preventing the emergence of psychopathology in children. Participants were 90 Greek children (aged 9-13) who attended 16 weekly meetings and their parents who attended 10 biweekly meetings. The effectiveness of the program was evaluated with pre-and-post-intervention assessment (i.e., pre-experimental design). Children’s early maladaptive schemas (self-reports) and strengths and difficulties (self- and parent-reports), as well as parents’ early maladaptive schemas (self-reports) were assessed. Results showed a significant decrease in most early maladaptive schemas of children and in many early maladaptive schemas of parents. A significant decrease was found in children’s emotional symptoms, peer relationship problems and total difficulties score and a significant increase in prosocial behavior. The supporting evidence for the effectiveness of the program and the necessity of evidence-based prevention programs based on Schema Therapy for children and parents are discussed.

{Human existence and progress hinge on sustainability and resilience, especially in the Anthropocene Era, where the diversity of nature plays a critical role. Central to this endeavor is the realm of geoethics, which not only reshapes the role of geosciences but also fosters the development of ethical behavior and practices in our interaction with the Earth. This paper presents a conceptual framework that integrates the seemingly disparate domains of geoethics, geoenvironmental education, and the sense of place. By conducting a systematic review using the keywords “Geoethics AND Education” and “Geoethics AND place” across global databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and JSTOR, up to October 2023, we seek to uncover evidence illuminating the potential connections between these concepts. Out of n = 98 records identified

The aim of this study is to understand the family history of people pathologically engaging in gambling in rural Greece along with the factors and effects (suicidal thoughts/attempts) related thereto, according to participants’ perspective. Qualitative in nature, the study was based on 32 semi-structured interviews carried out with adults who attended a Treatment Facility for pathological gambling in Heraklion Crete, in Greece. A past family history of excessive gambling was reported by most of the participants, while in many cases were reported a family history of alcohol misuse. Participants perceived self-characteristics, losses/traumatic experiences, paternal and nuclear family characteristics, work-related problems, peers who also gamble and upbringing practices influenced by culture as principal pathological gambling factors. Participants also reported that pathological gambling has various effects on one’s psychological mood, behavior, and relationship patterns with self and others. Most participants also reported having suicidal thoughts, whereas a few of them mentioned at least one suicide attempt. The study concludes that pathological gambling in the current population is associated with a past family history of excessive gambling or alcohol misuse. Multiple factors also seem to contribute to its manifestation and to such adverse effects, such as suicidal thoughts and attempts.

Understanding the geochemistry and contamination of rivers affected by anthropogenic activities is paramount to water resources management. The Asopos river basin in central Greece is facing environmental quality deterioration threats due to industrial, urban and agricultural activities. Here, the geochemistry of river sediments and adjacent soil in terms of major and trace elements (Al, Ca, Mg, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) and the geochemical composition of surface water in terms of major ions, trace elements and nutrients along the Asopos river basin were determined. In addition, this study characterized potential nitrate sources through the analysis of stable isotope composition of NO3− (δ15Ν-ΝΟ3− and δ18Ο-ΝΟ3−). Results indicated that specific chemical constituents including nutrients (NO2−, NH4+, PO43−) and major ions (Na+, Cl−) were highest in the urban, industrialized and downstream areas. On the other hand, nitrate (NO3−) concentration in river water (median 7.9 mg/L) showed a decreasing trend from the upstream agricultural sites to the urban area and even more in the downstream of the urban area sites. Ionic ratios (NO3−/Cl−) and δ15Ν-ΝΟ3− values (range from +10.2 ‰ to +15.7 ‰), complemented with a Bayesian isotope mixing model, clearly showed the influence of organic wastes from septic systems and industries operating in the urban area on river nitrate geochemistry. The interpretation of geochemical data of soil and river sediment samples demonstrated the strong influence of local geology on Cr, Fe, Mn and Ni content, with isolated samples showing elevated concentrations of Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn, mostly within the industrialized urban environment. The calculation of enrichment factors based on the national background concentrations provided limited insights into the origin of geogenic metals. Overall, this study highlighted the need for a more holistic approach to assess the impact of the geological background and anthropogenic activities on river waters and sediments.

This paper explores an innovative educational program designed to protect and promote the geocultural heritage of Minoan Crete. The program applies environmental education and sustainability principles while integrating theater in education, a novel approach that significantly impacts participants’ perspectives. By effectively combining these elements, the program fosters environmental awareness, deepens cultural appreciation, and instills sustainable behaviors in both the local population and visitors. This interdisciplinary approach, blending geocultural heritage into environmental education, promotes an understanding of the delicate balance between nature and human interaction during the Minoan era. The paper also examines the program’s potential for broader community engagement and policy influence, emphasizing how its educational outcomes could result in meaningful changes at both community and policy levels. We advocate for the preservation of Minoan Crete’s geocultural heritage and its sustainable future through a unique blend of educational strategies, marking a milestone in heritage conservation.

On 6 February 2023, East Anatolia was devastated by two major earthquakes resulting in hundreds of thousands of collapses and tens of thousands of human casualties, and injured and homeless people. These high numbers are attributed to the extensive heavy and very heavy structural damage corresponding to damage grades 4 and 5 in terms of the European Macroseismic Scale EMS-98 that were caused in the earthquake-affected area.The obvious reasons that contributed to the disaster comprised the large magnitude of the earthquakes, the generation of the first earthquake during the night that found the majority of the population in their homes, the demographic characteristics of the region that include densely built-up and populated areas as well as the proximity of many residential areas to the ruptured faults. Furthermore, the synergy of significant factors, which are strongly related to the seismotectonic setting of the area, the earthquake environmental effects (EEEs) and the characteristics of the affected structures resulted in one of the largest earthquake disasters in the modern history of the country.The aim of this study is to highlight the factors related to building properties and the generation of EEEs that control the grade and the spatial distribution of building damage in the studied earthquake-affected areas of southeastern Turkey. The results of this study are based on field surveys conducted by the authors shortly after the earthquakes (7 to 11 February) and after almost 2 months (31 March to 6 April). The field survey comprising conventional methods of geological mapping and modern and innovative methodologies such as deployment of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).In regards to the building construction properties, the loose enforcement of the building code, the random urban planning solutions and the poor construction standards are the main construction deficiencies that led to one of the largest disasters in Turkey’s recent history.Regarding geological factors, the triggering of primary and secondary EEEs largely shaped the grade and distribution of damage. Where coseismic surface ruptures intersected with the built environment, heavy to very heavy structural damage was observed. This was evident in many cases along the ruptured segments of the East Anatolian Fault Zone. Liquefaction observed close to waterbodies caused damage typical of building foundation load-bearing capacity loss. The earthquake-triggered landslides affected mainly mountainous and semi-mountainous settlements characterized with pre-earthquake high related susceptibility. The high susceptibility to generation of EEEs was extensively confirmed in many cases resulting in extensive damage.

On 6 February 2023, the Eastern Anatolia experienced significant devastation due to two major seismic events, leading to the collapse of hundreds of thousands of structures and causing tens of thousands of human casualties, injuries, and homeless people. The substantial magnitude of these impacts is attributed to the extensive occurrence of heavy and very heavy structural damage, categorized as damage grades 4 and 5 according to the European Macroseismic Scale EMS-98, within the earthquake-affected area.The discernible factors contributing to the disaster encompassed the substantial magnitude of the earthquakes, the occurrence of the initial seismic event during nighttime, thereby locating a considerable portion of the population within their residences, and the demographic attributes of the region characterized by densely constructed and populated zones, coupled with the close proximity of numerous residential areas to the ruptured faults. Additionally, the confluence of significant factors, closely associated with the seismotectonic context of the region, the effects of earthquake environmental effects, and the characteristics of the impacted structures, culminated in one of the most extensive earthquake disasters in the recent history of Turkey.This study aims to highlight the factors controlling associated with building properties and the manifestation of earthquake environmental effects that govern the severity and spatial dispersion of structural damage within the earthquake-affected regions under study in the southeastern Turkey. The findings presented herein derive from field surveys undertaken by the authors in the immediate aftermath of the seismic events (7th to 11th February) and subsequently, almost two months later (31st March to 6th April). The field surveys included conventional techniques of geological mapping alongside innovative methodologies, including the deployment of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).With regard to building construction characteristics, insufficient adherence to building codes, arbitrary urban planning solutions, and substandard construction practices constitute primary deficiencies contributed to the disaster. Concerning geological factors, the generation of both primary and secondary earthquake environmental effects significantly influenced the intensity and distribution of damage. Locations where coseismic surface ruptures intersected with built-up areas exhibited heavy to very heavy structural damage, as evidenced along the ruptured segments of the East Anatolian Fault Zone. Liquefaction proximal to water bodies resulted in damage indicative of building foundation load-bearing capacity. Earthquake-triggered landslides predominantly impacted mountainous and semi-mountainous villages and areas characterized by pre-existing susceptibility. The substantial susceptibility to EEEs generation was extensively corroborated in numerous cases, leading to widespread damage. The presented information highlights the pivotal role of such studies in informing hazard mitigation and facilitating disaster risk reduction measures.

Ground fissures have occurred in the last four decades across the eastern Thessaly basin (Greece) resulting in damage to the villages of the area. Several studies for the area refer to the over-pumping of ground water as the main reason for their occurrence, causing sediment compaction due to the reduction of the aquifer level. In this paper, we depict the results of a joint geophysical survey trying to determine the subsurface regime of the basin and the exact reasons contributing to the existence of the ground fissures. The focal part of the survey includes gravity measurements for deeper investigation, combined with existing and already presented geoelectrical and electromagnetic data. Several borehole data have also been used for the calibration of the geophysical interpretation. The differential GNSS data of the gravity campaign revealed the ground subsidence of the area, reaching up to 9.16 m. The alpine basement of the area is comprised mainly of metamorphic rocks, such as marbles, mica schists and gneiss-schists, covered by thick fluviοterrestrial and alluvial deposits. Several structural maps were generated in order to delineate the lateral density variations that could be related to fault zones along with the interpretive sections for geological modelling. The alpine bedrock was adumbrated in relatively great depths, with a large anticline of NW-SE direction, rising and separating the basin in two parts. In the east part, the fluvioterrestrial deposits, which are expected to play an important role in the compaction due to their water aquifer, are located only west of this anticline. At the east part, where the old lake Karla was hosted, the alluvial deposits lay directly on the alpine basement in smaller depths. This complicated regime is responsible for differential sediment compaction and the ground subsidence of the surface.

Η μελέτη διερευνά την ερμηνεία του στίχου περί της δωρεάς του Αγίου Πνεύματος στους μαθητές από τον αναστάντα Ιησού μετά την Ανάστασή του στο Ιω. 20:22 από την πατερική γραμματεία του τέταρτου και του πέμπτου αιώνα, εστιάζοντας αντιπροσωπευτικά στις ερμηνείες των Κυρίλλου Ιεροσολύμων, Ιερωνύμου, Ιωάννη Χρυσοστόμου, Αυγουστίνου και Κυρίλλου Αλεξανδρείας. Από τη διερεύνηση αυτή προκύπτουν τα εξής συμπεράσματα: 1) Δεν υπάρχει ουσιαστική διαφοροποίηση μεταξύ δυτικής και ανατολικής, λατινόφωνης και ελληνόφωνης, αντιοχειανής και αλεξανδρινής εξήγησης. Όπως φαίνεται, έχουν επικρατήσει στη χριστιανική εκκλησία της εποχής συγκεκριμένες τάσεις μιας χριστολογικής και πνευματολογικής ερμηνείας του Ιωα 20:22, παρά λίγες επιμέρους διαφοροποιήσεις και παραλλαγές. Το λεγόμενο Filioque εμφανίζεται μόνο στον Αυγουστίνο σε μια πρώιμη μορφή του, διακριτή από την αντίληψη περί «οικονομικού filioque» των ανατολικών Πατέρων της Εκκλησίας. Σχεδόν όλοι οι εξεταζόμενοι στη μελέτη Πατέρες συνδέουν την εμφύσηση του Αγίου Πνεύματος με την ιστορία της δημιουργίας (Γεν 2:7), αλλά διαφοροποιούν το Πνεύμα από την ανθρώπινη ψυχή. Εξάλλου στηρίζονται σε παράλληλα βιβλικά κείμενα και όχι σε άλλους εκκλησιαστικούς συγγραφείς καθιστώντας έτσι, παρά τη δεδομένη μεταξύ τους αλληλεπίδραση, τη Βίβλο καθεαυτήν την κατεξοχήν αναμφισβήτητη θεολογική αυθεντία της εποχής τους. Για την ερμηνεία τους, λόγω ακριβώς του δογματικού ενδιαφέροντός της, αποφεύγουν να χρησιμοποιήσουν τις μεθόδους της αλληγορίας και της τυπολογίας. Τέλος, θεωρούν ότι οι διηγήσεις περί της δωρεάς του Αγίου Πνεύματος στο κατά Ιωάννην Ευαγγέλιο και στις Πράξεις των Αποστόλων αναφέρονται σε δύο διαφορετικά γεγονότα και όχι στο ίδιο γεγονός, αν και βέβαια τονίζουν ότι πρόκειται για το ίδιο Πνεύμα, το οποίο όμως παρέχει στους αποστόλους σε κάθε ένα από τα δύο αυτά περιστατικά διαφορετικά χαρίσματα. Αναδεικνύοντας και υπογραμμίζοντας η μελέτη τα βασικά θεολογικά μοτίβα της ερμηνείας του Ιωα 20:22 στην πατερική παράδοση φωτίζει τις θεολογικές τάσεις και συζητήσεις μιας άκρως σημαντικής για την ιστορία του Χριστιανισμού περιόδου, κατά την οποία τίθενται τα δογματικά θεμέλια της ανάπτυξής του μέχρι και τη νεότερη εποχή.  This study investigates the interpretation of John 20:22, concerning the risen Jesus’ bestowal of the Holy Spirit upon his disciples, as reflected in the patristic literature of the fourth and fifth centuries. It focuses on the representative exegeses of Cyril of Jerusalem, Jerome, John Chrysostom, Augustine of Hippo, and Cyril of Alexandria. The investigation yields the following conclusions: There is no substantial differentiation between Western and Eastern, Latin and Greek, Antiochian and Alexandrian interpretations. Certain trends of Christological and pneumatological exegesis of John 20:22 had already become predominant in the Christian Churches of the time, despite minor variations and differences. The concept of the Filioque appears solely in Augustine, in an early form distinct from the “economic Filioque” perspective of the Eastern Fathers. Nearly all the Church Fathers examined in the study associate Jesus’ breathing of the Holy Spirit with the creation narrative of Genesis 2:7. However, they make a clear distinction between the Holy Spirit and the human soul. The patristic authors base their interpretations on parallel biblical texts rather than on other ecclesiastical writers. Thus, despite the evident interaction among them, the Bible itself emerges as the preeminent and unquestionable theological authority of their era. Due to the doctrinal nature of their interpretations, the Fathers refrain from employing allegory or typology in their analyses. They unanimously consider the Johannine and Lukan accounts of the giving of the Holy Spirit as referring to two distinct events rather than to the same occurrence. However, they emphasize that the same Spirit is involved in both instances, though it imparts different gifts to the apostles in each case. By highlighting the theological motifs of John 20:22 in the patristic tradition, the study sheds light on the theological trends and discussions of a critical period in Christian history, during which the doctrinal foundations for Christianity's development into the modern era were established.

We are presenting a geopolitical analysis of power redistribution in the Geopolitical Complex of the Eastern Mediterranean, as defned by the Greek-Cypriot-Turkish-Israeli-Egyptian pentagon. The factor causing the reallocation of power in the Geopolitical Complex examined isTurkey’s policy in the Eastern Mediterranean, with a focus on the illegal Turkish-Libyan Memorandum of Understanding. Therefore, this analysis covers bilateral relations and tensions between Greece and Turkey andother international poles of power (France, Italy, Germany, the USA, and Russia) and their projection in the Eastern Mediterranean. Under the aforementioned perspective, we examine the converging factors upon which this analysis is focused: (a) the debate concerning the direct or indirect projection of power in the area, (b) the opportunities for cooperation between Greece and France in the defensesector, and (c) the advantages of creating a new Southeastern Mediterranean architecture of security in the context of NATO.

This study investigates the impact of green roof (GR) implementations as a mitigation strategy for urban heating during an extreme heat wave event in Athens, Greece, from 28 July to 5 August 2021. Three GR scenarios were simulated, namely 100% grass coverage, 100% sedum coverage, and 50% grass coverage, using the Weather Research and Forecasting model (WRF) in conjunction with the multi-layer urban-canopy-model BEP&BEM (Building Effect Parameterization/Building Energy Model) and extra urban land-use categories from Local Climate Zones (LCZ). Based on the results, GRs alter the local heat balance in the Greater Area of Athens (GAA), leading to a total temperature reduction. The 100% grass coverage proved to be the most effective, particularly during daytime, reducing the 2 m temperature field by approximately 0.7 ∘C (mean value) in the GAA. In some locations, temperature reductions exceeded 2 ∘C, depending on the local characteristics and the direction of the prevailing winds. Grass offered superior cooling effects compared to sedum, although sedum is more resilient to dry and moderate climates. The extent of vegetation coverage played an important role in the effectiveness of GRs. Reducing the coverage by 50% significantly reduced the cooling benefits, highlighting the importance of maximizing vegetation coverage to achieve notable temperature reductions.

Purpose: To examine nocturnal sleep patterns, napping behaviors, and subjective wellness responses of elite water polo players within an in-season week and to identify whether sleeping patterns differ between men and women. Methods: Sleep characteristics of 10 male and 17 female professional water polo players were objectively assessed during 1 week of the in-season period, including 5 training days, 1 match day, and 1 day of rest. Internal load (rating of perceived exertion × duration of training or match) was assessed 30 minutes posttraining or postmatch, and the total quality of recovery was recorded every morning. A series of multilevel models were used to analyze the data. Results: Time in bed and wake-up time were earlier on both training (P < .001) and rest days (P < .001) than on the day of the match. Internal workload did not predict any of the players' sleeping patterns. Midday naps predicted less time in bed (P = .03) and likely less sleep time (P = .08). The total quality of recovery was predicted only by the total sleep time (P < .01).Women exhibited higher sleep efficiency (P < .001), less waking after sleep onset (P = .01), and a lower number of awakenings (P = .02) than men. Conclusions: The current results indicate that the nocturnal sleep patterns of elite water polo players are not associatedwith internal load and thatwomen display better nocturnal sleep quality compared with men. As long naps interfere with nocturnal sleep, and total nocturnal sleep time predicts total quality of recovery, we suggest that athletes follow hygiene sleep strategies to facilitate adequate nocturnal sleep and next-day recovery. © 2024 Human Kinetics Publishers Inc.. All rights reserved.

The Byzantine Commonwealth stands out in the annals of history as an indelible construct which exercised a profound influence on the preservation and continual reinvigoration of the Greek cultural heritage. Functioning as the custodian of ancient Greek legacies, it served as a bulwark against the tides of time and also facilitated the dissemination of these cultural elements to the burgeoning civilizations of the Medieval Age. As the ultimate bastion of the Hellenistic tradition, the Commonwealth evolved into a “crucible”, wherein profound Christian theological inquiries flourished, thus laying the groundwork for an authentically ecumenical Orthodoxy. This epochal transformation served as the cornerstone for the delineation of the spiritual and intellectual contours that came to define the Eastern world in its entirety. Hellenism served not only as a cultural foundation but also as a dynamic force in fostering national consciousness and resistance against conquering powers. In the end, the resilience of Byzantine culture contributed significantly to the formation of modern Neo-Hellenic/Neo-Byzantine identities, influencing contemporary sociopolitical movements and policies. This paper offers a review of key historical events and philosophical shifts which defined this long process and shaped the development of modern East European nations. It also highlights the complex interplay between historical heritage and modern national identity

The stability of nonlinear systems in the control domain has been extensively studied using different versions of the algebraic Riccati equation (ARE). This leads to the focus of this work: the search for the time-varying quaternion ARE (TQARE) Hermitian solution. The zeroing neural network (ZNN) method, which has shown significant success at solving time-varying problems, is used to do this. We present a novel ZNN model called ’ZQ-ARE’ that effectively solves the TQARE by finding only Hermitian solutions. The model works quite effectively, as demonstrated by one application to quadrotor control and three simulation tests. Specifically, in three simulation tests, the ZQ-ARE model finds the TQARE Hermitian solution under various initial conditions, and we also demonstrate that the convergence rate of the solution can be adjusted. Furthermore, we show that adapting the ZQ-ARE solution to the state-dependent Riccati equation (SDRE) technique stabilizes a quadrotor’s flight control system faster than the traditional differential-algebraic Riccati equation solution.

A fraction of the active supermassive black holes at the centers of galaxies in our Universe are capable of launching extreme kiloparsec-long relativistic jets. These jets are known multiband (radio to γ-ray) and multimessenger (neutrino) emitters, and some of them have been monitored over decades at all accessible wavelengths. However, several open questions remain unanswered about the processes powering these highly energetic phenomena. These jets intrinsically produce soft-to-hard X-ray emission that extends from E>0.1keV up to E>100keV, and simultaneous broadband X-ray coverage, combined with excellent timing and imaging capabilities, is required to uncover the physics of jets. Indeed, truly simultaneous soft-to-hard X-ray coverage, in synergy with current and upcoming high-energy facilities (such as IXPE, COSI, CTAO, etc.) and neutrino detectors (e.g., IceCube), would enable us to disentangle the particle population responsible for the high-energy radiation from these jets. A sensitive hard X-ray survey (F20−80keV<10−15ergcm−2s−1) could unveil the bulk of their population in the early Universe. Acceleration and radiative processes responsible for the majority of their X-ray emission would be pinned down by microsecond timing capabilities at both soft and hard X-rays. Furthermore, imaging jet structures for the first time in the hard X-ray regime could unravel the origin of their high-energy emission. The proposed Probe-class mission concept High Energy X-ray Probe (HEX-P) combines all these required capabilities, making it the crucial next-generation X-ray telescope in the multi-messenger, time-domain era. HEX-P will be the ideal mission to unravel the science behind the most powerful accelerators in the Universe.

Since the early days of its professionalization, in the aftermath of the Second World War, the history of science has been seen as a bridge between the natural sciences and the humanities. However, only one aspect of this triadic nexus, the relations between the history of science and the natural sciences, has been extensively discussed. The other aspect, the relations between the history of science and the humanities, has been less commented upon. With this paper I hope to make a small step towards redressing this imbalance, by discussing the relationships between the history of science and two other humanistic disciplines that have been historically and institutionally associated with it: the philosophy of science and general history. I argue that both of these relationships are marked by the characteristics of an unrequited friendship: on the one hand, historians of science have ignored, for the most part, calls for collaboration from their philosopher colleagues; and, on the other hand, historians specializing in other branches of history have been rather indifferent, again for the most part, to the efforts of historians of science to understand science as a historical phenomenon. I attempt to offer a diagnosis of this regrettable situation and a suggestion for overcoming it.

In light of the recent research in low-dimensional bismuth structures as spin-active materials and topological insulators, we present a comprehensive characterization of the Bi/Au(111) interface. The nuanced evolution of Bi phases upon deposition in ultrahigh vacuum (UHC) on a Au(111) surface is investigated from semidisordered clusters to few-layer Bi(110) thin films. Particular attention is devoted to the high-coverage, submonolayer phases, commonly grouped under the (P×√3) nomenclature. We bring forth a new model, refining the current understanding of the Bi/Au(111) interface and demonstrating the existence of submonolayer moiré superstructures, whose geometry and superperiodicity depend on their coverage. This tuneable periodicity paves the way for their use as tailored buffer and templating layers for epitaxial growth of thin films on Au(111). Finally, we clarify the growth mode of multilayer Bi(110) as bilayer-by-bilayer, allowing precise thickness control of anisotropically strained thin films. This holistic understanding of the structural properties of the material was enabled by the synergy of several experimental techniques, namely low-energy electron diffraction (LEED), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy (STM, STS), and X-ray standing waves (XSW), further corroborated by density functional theory (DFT) simulations.

We investigate conditions for the extendibility of continuous algebra homomorphisms ϕ from the Fourier algebra A(F ) of a locally compact group F to the Fourier-Stieltjes algebra B(G) of a locally compact group G to maps between the corresponding L∞ algebras which are weak* continuous. When ϕ is completely bounded and F is amenable, it is induced by a piecewise affine map α : Y → F where Y ⊆ G. We show that extendibility of ϕ is equivalent to α being an open map. We also study the dual problem for contractive homomorphismsϕ : L1 (F ) → M (G). We show that ϕ induces a w* continuous homomorphism between the von Neumann algebras of the groups if and only if the naturally associated map θ (Greenleaf [1965], Stokke [2011]) is a proper map.

Glucocorticoids are important for proper organ maturation, and their levels are tightly regulated during development. Here, we use human cerebral organoids and mice to study the cell-type-specific effects of glucocorticoids on neurogenesis. We show that glucocorticoids increase a specific type of basal progenitors (co-expressing PAX6 and EOMES) that has been shown to contribute to cortical expansion in gyrified species. This effect is mediated via the transcription factor ZBTB16 and leads to increased production of neurons. A phenome-wide Mendelian randomization analysis of an enhancer variant that moderates glucocorticoid-induced ZBTB16 levels reveals causal relationships with higher educational attainment and altered brain structure. The relationship with postnatal cognition is also supported by data from a prospective pregnancy cohort study. This work provides a cellular and molecular pathway for the effects of glucocorticoids on human neurogenesis that relates to lasting postnatal phenotypes.

Autosomal Dominant Optic Atrophy (ADOA) is a rare neurodegenerative condition, characterized by the bilateral loss of vision due to the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells. Its primary cause is linked to mutations in OPA1 gene, which ultimately affect mitochondrial structure and function. The current lack of successful treatments for ADOA emphasizes the need to investigate the mechanisms driving disease pathogenesis and exploit the potential of animal models for preclinical trials. Among such models, Caenorhabditis elegans stands out as a powerful tool, due its simplicity, its genetic tractability, and its relevance to human biology. Despite the lack of a visual system, the presence of mutated OPA1 in the nematode recapitulates ADOA pathology, by stimulating key pathogenic features of the human condition that can be studied in a fast and relatively non-laborious manner. Here, we provide a detailed guide on how to assess the therapeutic efficacy of chemical compounds, in either small or large scale, by evaluating three crucial phenotypes of humanized ADOA model nematodes, that express pathogenic human OPA1 in their GABAergic motor neurons: axonal mitochondria number, neuronal cell death and defecation cycle time. The described methods can deepen our understanding of ADOA pathogenesis and offer a practical framework for developing novel treatment schemes, providing hope for improved therapeutic outcomes and a better quality of life for individuals affected by this currently incurable condition.

For air quality management, while numerical tools are mainly evaluated to assess their performances on absolute concentrations, this study assesses the impact of their settings on the robustness of model responses to emission reduction strategies for the main criteria pollutants. The effect of the spatial resolution and chemistry schemes is investigated. We show that whereas the spatial resolution is not a crucial setting (except for NO2), the chemistry scheme has more impact, particularly when assessing hourly values of the absolute potential of concentrations. The analysis of model responses under the various configurations triggered an analysis of the impact of using online models, like WRF-chem or WRF-CHIMERE, which accounts for the impact of aerosol concentrations on meteorology. This study informs the air quality modeling community on what extent some model settings can affect the expected model responses to emission changes. We suggest to not activate online effects when analyzing the effect of an emission reduction strategy to avoid any confusion in the interpretation of results even if an online simulation should represent better the reality.

BACKGROUND: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is prevalent among obese patients, and cryoballoon ablation (CBA) is an effective strategy for the rhythm control of AF. The impact of body mass index (BMI) on the clinical outcomes of CBA for AF is not fully explored. METHODS: 85 consecutive patients with paroxysmal AF were enrolled and were categorized into three groups as per their BMI: normal weight (BMI 18.5-25 kg/m), overweight (BMI 25-30 kg/m), and obese patients (BMI > 30 kg/m). The primary study endpoint was a late (12 month) recurrence of AF. Early recurrence of AF, symptom improvement, and procedural outcomes were some key secondary outcomes. RESULTS: 20 patients had normal weight, 35 were overweight, and 30 were obese. Obese patients featured a higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus, heavier exposure to smoking, and worse baseline symptoms (as assessed through EHRA class at admission and 12 months before CBA) compared to overweight and normal weight patients. Both late and early (<3 months) AF recurrence rates were comparable across the three groups. Of note, obese patients showed greater improvement in their symptoms post-CBA, defined as improvement by at least one EHRA class, compared to normal weight patients; this might be explained by improved diastolic function. Total procedure time and dose area product were significantly increased in obese patients. The multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that early AF recurrence and the duration of hypertension are independent predictors of late AF recurrence. CONCLUSION: CBA is effective in overweight and obese patients with paroxysmal AF. Procedure time and radiation exposure are increased in obese patients undergoing CBA.

There is limited research on the role of childhood trauma in personality pathology according to Kernberg’s psychodynamic model of internalized object relations. Because childhood trauma reflects the disruptions of these relations, it is expected to predict borderline personality organization, especially at the threshold of adulthood. Therefore, the main aim of this retrospective study was to examine the impact of childhood trauma on borderline personality organization in a community sample of emerging adults. Participants were 543 Greek individuals aged 18-29 (M = 21.45; 58.6% females; 85.1% university students). They completed the Greek versions of the Traumatic Antecedents Questionnaire (TAQ) and the Inventory of Personality Organization (IPO), which were tested for their factorial structure, reliability, and measurement invariance across gender, as few empirical data exist on the psychometric properties of these measures. Confirmatory factor analyses showed that the TAQ consisted of four factors, namely positive experiences, abuse, traumatic life events, and family chaos. The five-factor theoretical structure of the IPO, namely primitive defenses, identity diffusion, reality testing, aggression, and moral values, was confirmed. Low to moderate links between childhood trauma and borderline personality organization were found, with stronger links emerging for abuse and family chaos. Structural equation modeling showed that the various forms of childhood trauma across the age periods studied (i.e., 0-6, 7-12, 13-18) significantly and differentially predicted the dimensions of borderline personality organization. The finding that stronger links emerged when trauma occurred in older ages may be attributed to the retrospective method of the study. Gender differences were also found; for example, personality pathology was more likely in men when abuse and traumatic life events occurred in younger ages and abuse was a more important risk factor for personality pathology in women. This study highlights the impact of childhood adversity on personality pathology in emerging adulthood, provides empirical support for Kernberg’s psychodynamic model, and has useful implications for trauma-informed early screening, prevention, and intervention regarding personality pathology in young people. Limitations of this study and suggestions for future research are outlined.

The projected increase in frequency of flood extremes, attributed to climate change, poses a significant threat to coastal regions throughout the Mediterranean. Consequences encompass extensive geomorphological changes, infrastructural degradation, property damage, pollution of the aquatic environment, and other adverse socio-economic impacts, also threating the blue economy—a vital economic driver of the region. Acknowledging the pivotal role of coastal areas as critical nodes for both economic activities and ecologically valuable natural landscapes, it becomes imperative to deepen our understanding of the mechanisms and extents to which extreme flood events can impact these vulnerable coastal zones. This work focuses on exploring the impacts on the coastline of recent extreme storm events in the Eastern Mediterranean. The study aims to explore and classify the typology of effects, the severity of impacts and examine their spatial distribution as means to contribute to an improved understanding of extreme storm and flooding consequences in the region.

A family of zeroing neural networks based on new nonlinear activation functions is proposed for solving various time-varying linear matrix equations (TVLME). The proposed neural network dynamical systems, symbolized as Li-VPZNN1 and Li-VPZNN2, include an exponential parameter in nonlinear activation function (AF) that leads to faster convergence to the theoretical result compared to previous categories of nonlinearly activated neural networks. Theoretical analysis as well as numerical tests in MATLAB's environment confirm the efficiency and accelerated convergence property of the novel dynamics.

Cultural logic is a set of cultural scripts and patterns organized around a central theme. The cultural logics of dignity, honor, and face describe different ways of evaluating a person’s worth and maintaining cooperation. These cultural logics vary in prevalence across cultures. In this study, we collaboratively develop and validate a measure capturing these cultural logics, which will allow us to map world cultures based on the prevalence of these logics. We will further explore the interrelationsof dignity, honor, and face with prosocial behavior, values, moral beliefs, and religiosity as well as examine the generalizability of these relationships across cultures. Finally, we will explore historical antecedents (e.g., resource scarcity) and current correlates (e.g., inequality) of the country-level prevalence of these cultural logics. This study will generate a new dataset of country scores for dignity, honor, and face that will be available for future comparative research. It will also providetheoretical insights for researchers and practitioners interested in cooperation and social behavior within and between cultures.

One of the World Health Organization's targets for the 2030 viral hepatitis elimination strategy is to reduce new hepatitis C (HCV) infections. In Athens, Greece, people who inject drugs (PWID) have a high HCV prevalence, with increasing trends since the 2000s. This analysis aims to assess primary HCV incidence among PWID during 2012-2020. Two community-based interventions were implemented in 2012-2013 and 2018-2020 with repeated sero-behavioural surveys in each period. Participants enrolled in multiple surveys were identified through linkage. To assess trends in HCV transmission, three indicators were estimated: (i) anti-HCV prevalence among 'new' injectors (those injecting ≤2 years), (ii) indirect HCV incidence among 'new' injectors, assuming infection occurred at the midpoint between initiating injection and the first positive test, and (iii) HCV incidence from repeat participants. There were 431 and 125 'new' injectors, respectively, in 2012-2013 and 2018-2020. Αnti-HCV prevalence [95% CI] declined from 53.6% [48.8%, 58.3%] in 2012-2013 to 40.0% [31.3, 49.1%] in 2018-2020 (25.4% reduction, p = .007). The indirect estimate [95% CI] of HCV incidence among 'new' injectors decreased from 56.1 [49.3, 63.8] to 39.0/100 person-years (PYs) [29.6, 51.5] (30.5% reduction, p = .020). HCV incidence [95% CI] based on seroconversions in repeat participants (16/63 in 2012-2013 and 9/55 in 2018-2020) declined from 64.6 [39.6105.4] to 13.8/100 PYs [7.2, 26.5], respectively (78.6% reduction, p < .001). Primary HCV incidence remains high among PWID in Athens. Consistent implementation of combined interventions, including high-coverage harm reduction programs and initiatives tailored to increase access to HCV treatment, is essential to sustain the declining trends documented during 2012-2020.

Although teachers’ autonomy support and structure are considered essential elements of the classroom environment to promote effective learning strategies, prior research has sometimes provided conflicting results. This inconsistency may stem from how autonomy support and structure relate to some outcomes but not others. Alternatively, this variability might be attributed to nonlinear relations, which have been scarcely tested thus far. In this cross-sectional study, we revisited this issue by examining both the linear and curvilinear relations of autonomy support and structure to challenge-seeking, novelty avoidance, and procrastination. Participants were 3,271 adolescents (Mage = 15.91, SD = 0.34 years; 59.8% females) from 116 classrooms. Multilevel polynomial regression analyses revealed that, compared to structure, autonomy support was a more reliable predictor of challenge-seeking, both at the student and the classroom levels. In contrast, structure predicted novelty avoidance and procrastination more reliably at both levels than autonomy support. Response surface analyses indicated that the most desired pattern existed at the line of congruence. Our findings suggest that both autonomy support and structure are needed to enhance students’ learning strategies. However, the degree of necessity may vary for specific outcomes, with one potentially being more crucial than the other. © 2024 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.

The perioperative management of patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) undergoing cardiac surgery is challenging, mainly due to the potential risk of right ventricular failure (RVF). Levosimendan is a calcium-sensitizing agent that has primarily been used in the treatment of decompensated heart failure. However, recently levosimendan has been shown to be an effective and safe therapeutic strategy for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension and PH associated with left heart disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential utility of the preemptive administration of levosimendan in cardiac surgical patients with preexisting PH and to compare its effectiveness with milrinone, which represents an already established therapeutic option in the management of PH during cardiac surgery. In this study, 40 adult cardiac surgical patients with PH were randomly assigned to receive either levosimendan intravenously or milrinone via inhalation in a double-blind fashion prior to a cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Hemodynamic and echocardiographic parameters were recorded and evaluated before and after the administration of the drugs. The results of this study demonstrated that both levosimendan and milrinone administered before CPB in cardiac surgical patients with PH may offer protective benefits, reducing pulmonary artery pressure and preventing the exacerbation of PH and RVF. Pulmonary vasodilation attributed to levosimendan is of longer duration and greater magnitude compared to pulmonary vasodilation afforded by milrinone.

Anthropogenic global challenges and environmental pressures are increasingly significant. Developing pro-environmental behavior and geoethics is crucial for enhancing awareness, action capability, and respect for natural systems. UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGps) play a vital role in conserving geological and biological diversity while aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. This quasi-experimental study, conducted during the 4th Summer School of Environmental Education on Geotopes and Sustainability at the Sitia UGGp, uses a pre–post design and comprehensive questionnaire to explore changes in participants’ sense of place and geoethical awareness. Results indicate significant improvements in place attachment, place meaning, and geoethical awareness. These findings suggest that stronger emotional bonds and deeper personal meanings related to the Sitia UGGp correlate with increased geoethical awareness. This research highlights the role of psychological connections in influencing geoenvironmental ethics and underscores the importance of place-based emotional and cognitive bonds in fostering geoethical thinking. However, this study’s limited sample size and the specific geographic context of Sitia UGGp may limit the generalizability of the findings. Despite these limitations, this study provides insights into the interplay of emotions, meanings, and geoethics within the sustainability and resilience spectrum.

Η μελέτη αντιμετωπίζει το πρόβλημα της ασάφειας στη χρήση του όρου Ιουδαίοι και των υποκατηγοριών του (κυρίως πιστεύοντες Ιουδαίοι, Φαρισαίοι, Ιεροσολυμίτες, άλλοι, κόσμος και όχλος) στα κεφ. 7-8 του κατά Ιωάννην Ευαγγελίου. Τα κεφάλαια αυτά, και πρωτίστως ο στίχος 8:44, περιλαμβάνουν ορισμένους από τους πλέον οξείς αντιιουδαϊκούς χαρακτηρισμούς στην ιστορία του Χριστιανισμού και έχουν χρησιμοποιηθεί διαχρονικά προκειμένου να θεμελιώσουν αντιιουδαϊκές θέσεις και συμπεριφορές. Σκοπός της μελέτης είναι η αποσαφήνιση της ταυτότητας των εκάστοτε συνομιλητών του Ιησού στα κεφ. 7-8 και των μεταβαλλόμενων τοποθετήσεών τους απέναντί του. Το θέμα προσεγγίζεται από τη σκοπιά της αφηγηματικής κριτικής. Η μελέτη διαιρείται με βάση την αφηγηματική δομή του κειμένου (7:1-9, 10-44, 45-52; 8:12-59). Συμπερασματικά προκύπτει ότι η εναλλαγή των συνομιλητών του Ιησού και η ενίοτε ασάφειά τους εξυπηρετεί τον στόχο του ευαγγελιστή να τους αφήσει σε κάποιον βαθμό απροσδιόριστους, ώστε τελικά να τους προβάλει συνολικά ως εκπροσώπους του αντίθεου κόσμου. Παρατηρείται επίσης ότι η εχθρότητα όλων των αναφερόμενων στο κείμενο ιουδαϊκών ομάδων, καθώς και των Ιουδαίων συνολικά, έναντι του Ιησού αυξάνεται σταδιακά και κορυφώνεται στις εκ μέρους τους απόπειρες σύλληψης και λιθοβολισμού του, χωρίς βέβαια να αποκλείεται και η ύπαρξη κάποιας ομάδας, η οποία απλώς δεν εκδηλώνει τη διαφωνία της με τις απόπειρες αυτές). Ωστόσο είναι σαφές ότι τα κεφάλαια 7-8 δεν λένε την τελευταία λέξη για την τοποθέτηση των Ιουδαίων και των υποκατηγοριών τους έναντι του Ιησού. Αντίθετα, θεωρούμενο συνολικά το κατά Ιωάννην Ευαγγέλιο, δείχνει ότι η εξέλιξη της στάσης αυτών των ομάδων έναντι του Ιησού, και επομένως η σωτηρία τους, παραμένει ανοικτή υπόθεση, όχι μόνο εντός, αλλά ακόμη και εκτός του κόσμου της αφήγησης. Αυτό σημαίνει ότι η εν προκειμένω αποτυχία των Ιουδαίων να πιστέψουν αληθινά στον Ιησού και η εχθρότητά τους απέναντί του δεν αποτελούν παρά ένα επιμέρους επεισόδιο σε μια συνεχιζόμενη πορεία, η οποία μπορεί τελικά να οδηγήσει πολλούς εξ αυτών στην πίστη. Επομένως, είναι παντελώς εσφαλμένη η θεώρηση του συγκεκριμένου κειμένου ως μιας στατικής και οριστικής καταδίκης των Ιουδαίων από τον ευαγγελιστή.The study addresses the issue of ambiguity in the use of the term "Jews" and its subcategories (mainly "believing Jews," "Pharisees," "Jerusalemites," "others," the "world," and the "crowd") in chapters 7-8 of the Gospel of John. These chapters, particularly verse 8:44, contain some of the most acute anti-Jewish characterizations in the history of Christianity and have been used over time to justify anti-Jewish positions and behaviors. The study aims to clarify the identity of Jesus' interlocutors in chapters 7-8 and their changing attitudes towards him. The topic is approached from a narrative-critical perspective. The study is divided based on the text's narrative structure (7:1-9, 10-44, 45-52; 8:12-59). In conclusion, the alternation of Jesus' interlocutors and their occasional ambiguity serves the evangelist's goal of leaving them undefined to a certain degree, thus presenting them collectively as representatives of the godless world. It is also observed that the hostility of all the Jewish groups mentioned in the text, as well as the "Jews" as a whole, towards Jesus gradually increases and culminates in their attempts to arrest and stone him, although the existence of a silent group that disagrees with these attempts is not excluded. However, it is clear that chapters 7-8 do not provide the final word on the "Jews'" and their subcategories' stance towards Jesus. On the contrary, considering the Gospel of John as a whole, the development of these groups' attitudes towards Jesus, and therefore their salvation, remains open, not only within but even outside the narrative world. This means that the "Jews'" failure to truly believe in Jesus and their hostility towards him is merely a part of an ongoing journey, which may ultimately lead many of them to faith. Therefore, it is entirely unjustified to view this text as a static and definitive condemnation of the Jews by the evangelist.

El vocabulario forma parte integral del sistema lingüístico y constituye un indicador importante de la competencia comunicativa del hablante de lengua extranjera. Sin embargo, la evaluación de ese vocabulario es una tarea especialmente compleja debido a las múltiples dimensiones que supone el conocimiento léxico. La prueba de disponibilidad léxica es una herramienta útil al aportar diferentes tipos de información relacionados con los conocimientos léxicos del aprendiz de lengua extranjera. Reconociendo el potencial de dicha herramienta para recoger respuestas pertenecientes a diferentes clases de palabras, el presente estudio persiguió explorar cómo se relacionan las características cognitivas de diferentes centros de interés con la categoría gramatical de las respuestas de aprendices de español como lengua extranjera (ELE) en una prueba de disponibilidad léxica. En concreto, se examinó cómo varía la categoría gramatical de las respuestas a partir de siete estímulos pertenecientes a diferentes categorías cognitivas a medida que se avanza en la competencia lingüística en ELE. Participaron en el estudio 140 estudiantes griegos de ELE de los niveles de referencia A, B y C, quienes llevaron a cabo una prueba de disponibilidad léxica en la modalidad escrita. En dicha prueba, se incluyeron los centros de interés ‘La casa’, ‘Comida y bebida’, ‘Profesiones y oficios’, ‘El campo’, ‘La ciudad’, ‘Celebraciones y fiestas’ y ‘Acciones diarias’. Tras cuantificar las diferentes categorías gramaticales en cada centro de interés en los tres niveles de referencia, los resultados mostraron que la categoría gramatical de las respuestas se ve influida por las características cognitivas tanto de las respuestas como de los centros de interés.

La presse hellénique éditée à Paris initialement en langue grecque voit émerger, à partir de la seconde moitié du xixe siècle, des périodiques rédigés en français. Ce choix peut être imputé aux conditions du paysage médiatique français après 1881 propices à l’émergence de nouveaux titres. L’adoption du français comme langue d’expression reflète également les besoins et les pratiques sociales de la communauté grecque ainsi que sa volonté d’occidentalisation. La langue française est aussi perçue par les éditeurs et journalistes grecs installés à Paris comme un outil susceptible de leur permettre d’intervenir dans le dialogue entamé sur le sort du pays au niveau européen. Quoique très hétérogène, cette presse témoigne des aspirations des émigrés et présente une cohérence idéologique qui détermine largement ses contenus éditoriaux. Elle constitue un puissant vecteur de propagande au service de la nation grecque et devient un lieu actif de transferts culturels entre la France et la Grèce.

El objeto del presente trabajo es examinar cómo el nivel lingüístico de los aprendices de una lengua extranjera afecta a las asociaciones léxicas que realizan estos en su lexicón mental. El lexicón mental es un sistema altamente estructurado y organizado de distintas formas en redes interrelacionadas. Entre las palabras se establecen asociaciones de diferentes tipos (p.e. semánticas, fonológicas, enciclopédicas). No obstante, estas asociaciones no son estables, ya que el lexicón mental es un sistema dinámico que crece y se reorganiza cada vez que se almacena una nueva unidad léxica o cada vez que se aprende una nueva información sobre una palabra ya almacenada. Con el fin de examinar dichas asociaciones y su evolución, utilizamos una prueba asociativa, la cual permite la activación del léxico productivo mediante una palabra estímulo, haciendo posible de este modo la observación de cómo se organiza el lexicón mental. En nuestro trabajo sometemos a dos grupos de participantes de diferente nivel lingüístico a la realización de una prueba de disponibilidad léxica. Más específicamente, analizamos las respuestas de un grupo de alumnos griegos de ELE de nivel B1 y otro de nivel C1. Evaluamos aspectos cuantitativos y cualitativos de las respuestas en el centro de interés “Comida y bebida”. Los resultados del estudio indican que el nivel lingüístico en lengua extranjera afecta a la cantidad de las asociaciones léxicas realizadas por los participantes, mientras que no influye de una manera decisiva en el tipo de asociaciones léxicas generadas.

FurE is a H symporter specific for the cellular uptake of uric acid, allantoin, uracil, and toxic nucleobase analogues in the fungus nidulans. Being member of the NCS1 protein family, FurE is structurally related to the APC-superfamily of transporters. APC-type transporters are characterised by a 5+5 inverted repeat fold made of ten transmembrane segments (TMS1-10) and function through the rocking-bundle mechanism. Most APC-type transporters possess two extra C-terminal TMS segments (TMS11-12), the function of which remains elusive. Here we present a systematic mutational analysis of TMS11-12 of FurE and show that two specific aromatic residues in TMS12, Trp473 and Tyr484, are essential for ER-exit and trafficking to the plasma membrane (PM). Molecular modeling shows that Trp473 and Tyr484 might be essential through dynamic interactions with residues in TMS2 (Leu91), TMS3 (Phe111), TMS10 (Val404, Asp406) and other aromatic residues in TMS12. Genetic analysis confirms the essential role of Phe111, Asp406 and TMS12 aromatic residues in FurE ER-exit. We further show that co-expression of FurE-Y484F or FurE-W473A with wild-type FurE leads to a dominant negative phenotype, compatible with the concept that FurE molecules oligomerize or partition in specific microdomains to achieve concentrative ER-exit and traffic to the PM. Importantly, truncated FurE versions lacking TMS11-12 are unable to reproduce a negative effect on the trafficking of co-expressed wild-type FurE. Overall, we show that TMS11-12 acts as an intramolecular chaperone for proper FurE folding, which seems to provide a structural code for FurE partitioning in ER-exit sites.

Within the framework of Self-Determination Theory (SDT), basic psychological need satisfaction predicts quality of motivation which in turn predicts study efforts. Although studies focusing on interpersonal differences have repeatedly shown this sequence of relations, only a few have examined its stability at the intra-personal level. In this diary study, we recruited 141 university students (Mage = 20.80, SD = 2.20 years) to investigate the degree of confluence among week-to-week need satisfaction, quality of motivation, learning strategies, and procrastination for four weeks. Multilevel structural equation modelling showed that need satisfaction covaried positively with autonomous motivation. In turn, week-to-week autonomous motivation predicted positively week-to-week critical thinking and effort regulation and negatively procrastination. These relations emerged even after controlling for gender, age, and study hours per week. Further, contextual autonomous motivation predicted higher mean levels of critical thinking and effort regulation and lower ones of procrastination. Interestingly, a cross-level interaction supported the sensitivity hypothesis as the negative relation between need satisfaction and controlled motivation was only true among students who were high in contextual (pre-diary assessed) controlled motivation. These findings highlight the importance of contextual motivation and the need to establish academic environments that consistently satisfy students' psychological needs, thus promoting the quality of motivation and adaptive learning strategies. © 2024 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Context. Recent associations of high-energy neutrinos with active galactic nuclei (AGN) have revived the interest in leptohadronic models of radiation from astrophysical sources. The rapid increase in the amount of acquired multi-messenger data will require fast numerical models that may be applied to large source samples. Aims: We develop a time-dependent leptohadronic code, LeHaMoC, that offers several notable benefits compared to other existing codes, such as versatility and speed. Methods: LeHaMoC solves the Fokker-Planck equations of photons and relativistic particles (i.e. electrons, positrons, protons, and neutrinos) produced in a homogeneous magnetized source that may also be expanding. The code utilizes a fully implicit difference scheme that allows fast computation of steady-state and dynamically evolving physical problems. Results: We first present test cases where we compare the numerical results obtained with LeHaMoC against exact analytical solutions and numerical results computed with ATHEvA, a well-tested code of similar philosophy but a different numerical implementation. We find a good agreement (within 10-30%) with the numerical results obtained with ATHEvA without evidence of systematic differences. We then demonstrate the capabilities of the code through illustrative examples. First, we fit the spectral energy distribution from a jetted AGN in the context of a synchrotron-self Compton model and a proton-synchrotron model using Bayesian inference. Second, we compute the high-energy neutrino signal and the electromagnetic cascade induced by hadronic interactions in the corona of NGC 1068. Conclusions: LeHaMoC is easily customized to model a variety of high-energy astrophysical sources and has the potential to become a widely utilized tool in multi-messenger astrophysics. Instructions for downloading the code, accessing online documentation, and reproducing applications presented in this paper can be found at https://github.com/mariapetro/LeHaMoC Github repository.

LeHaMoC simulates high-energy astrophysical sources. It simulates the behavior of relativistic pairs, protons interacting with magnetic fields, and photons in a spherical region. The package contains numerous physical processes, including synchrotron emission and self-absorption, inverse Compton scattering, photon-photon pair production, and adiabatic losses. It also includes proton-photon pion production, proton-photon (Bethe-Heitler) pair production, and proton-proton collisions. LeHaMoC can model expanding spherical sources with a variable magnetic field strength. In addition, three types of external radiation fields can be defined: grey body or black body, power-law, and tabulated.

Plasmonic photocatalysis based on metal-semiconductor heterojunctions is considered a key strategy to evade the inherent limitations of poor light harvesting and charge separation of semiconductor photocatalysts. It can be profitably combined with three-dimensional photonic crystals (PCs) that offer an ideal scaffold for loading plasmonic nanoparticles and a unique architecture to intensify photon capture. In this work{,} Mo-doped BiVO4 inverse opals were applied as visible light-responsive photonic hosts of Ag and/or Au plasmonic nanoparticles in order to exploit the synergy of plasmonic and photonic amplification effects with interfacial charge transfer for the photoelectrocatalytic degradation of recalcitrant pharmaceutical contaminants under visible light. Photoelectrochemical evaluation indicated a major contribution from hot spot-assisted local field enhancement{,} most pronounced for Ag/Mo-BiVO4 PCs due to the spectral overlap of the localized surface plasmon resonance with the electronic absorption and blue-edge slow photon region of Mo-BiVO4 PCs{,} in contrast to weak plasmonic sensitization effects for the Au-modified PCs. The diverse band alignment at the metal-semiconductor interfaces resulted in the enhanced photoelectrocatalytic degradation of tetracycline broad spectrum antibiotic by Ag/Mo-BiVO4 and the refractory ibuprofen drug by (Ag{,}Au)/Mo-BiVO4{,} attributed to the enhanced charge separation by electron transfer toward Ag nanoparticles. Combination of visible light activated semiconductor PCs and plasmonic nanoparticles with suitable band alignment and photonic band gap may provide a versatile approach for the rational design of efficient plasmonic-photonic photoeletrocatalysts.

A minimalist approach to the linear stability problem in fluid dynamics is developed that ensures efficiency by utilizing only the essential elements required to find the eigenvalues for given boundary conditions. It is shown that the problem is equivalent to a single first-order ordinary differential equation, and that studying the argument of the unknown complex function in the eigenvalue space is sufficient to find the dispersion relation. The method is applied to a model for relativistic magnetized astrophysical jets.

In this study, we attempt to provide insight into the complex interplay between loneliness/solitude and the writing gift from the early years of life. Theories and research on giftedness, loneliness/solitude, and on the links between them suggest that creative literary production and loneliness/solitude are associated. To further illustrate these associations, we briefly discuss loneliness and solitude in childhood, adult life, and work of four gifted writers: Hans Christian Andersen, Edgar Allan Poe, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Beatrix Helen Potter. The theoretical framework of this study is twofold: various psychoanalytic formulations and Bruner’s social constructivist and intersubjective conceptualisation of the narrative gift. The main conclusion of this study is that gifted writers have, paradoxically, an intense experience of both painful and beneficial aloneness, which is the inevitable outcome of the writing gift but also becomes the inspiration and motive force for ars poetica.

The recent unprecedented progress in ageing research and drug discovery brings together fundamental research and clinical applications to advance the goal of promoting healthy longevity in the human population. We, from the gathering at the Aging Research and Drug Discovery Meeting in 2023, summarised the latest developments in healthspan biotechnology, with a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI), biomarkers and clocks, geroscience, and clinical trials and interventions for healthy longevity. Moreover, we provide an overview of academic research and the biotech industry focused on targeting ageing as the root of age-related diseases to combat multimorbidity and extend healthspan. We propose that the integration of generative AI, cutting-edge biological technology, and longevity medicine is essential for extending the productive and healthy human lifespan.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder representing a major burden on families and society. Some of the main pathological hallmarks of AD are the accumulation of amyloid plaques (Aβ) and tau neurofibrillary tangles. However, it is still unclear how Aβ and tau aggregates promote specific phenotypic outcomes and lead to excessive oxidative DNA damage, neuronal cell death and eventually to loss of memory. Here we utilized a Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) model of human tauopathy to investigate the role of DNA glycosylases in disease development and progression. Transgenic nematodes expressing a pro-aggregate form of tau displayed altered mitochondrial content, decreased lifespan, and cognitive dysfunction. Genetic ablation of either of the two DNA glycosylases found in C. elegans, NTH-1 and UNG-1, improved mitochondrial function, lifespan, and memory impairment. NTH-1 depletion resulted in a dramatic increase of differentially expressed genes, which was not apparent in UNG-1 deficient nematodes. Our findings clearly show that in addition to its enzymatic activity, NTH-1 has non-canonical functions highlighting its modulation as a potential therapeutic intervention to tackle tau-mediated pathology.

Mitophagy, the selective removal of dysfunctional mitochondria, is pivotal for the maintenance of neuronal function and survival. MEC-12/α-tubulin contributes to neuronal physiology through the regulation of microtubule assembly, intracellular transport and mitochondrial distribution. However, its role in mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy remains obscure. Here, we demonstrate that MEC-12 influences mitochondrial morphology under basal conditions and regulates the axonal mitochondrial population. Impairment of MEC-12 results in compromised axonal mitophagy under both basal conditions and oxidative stress. Our results uncover the critical role of MEC-12/α-tubulin for maintaining a healthy mitochondrial population in axons and highlight the complex interplay between microtubules, mitophagy and neuronal health.

Unhealthy aging poses a global challenge with profound healthcare and socioeconomic implications. Slowing down the aging process offers a promising approach to reduce the burden of a number of age-related diseases, such as dementia, and promoting healthy longevity in the old population. In response to the challenge of the aging population and with a view to the future, Norway and the United Kingdom are fostering collaborations, supported by a "Money Follows Cooperation agreement" between the 2 nations. The inaugural Norway-UK joint meeting on aging and dementia gathered leading experts on aging and dementia from the 2 nations to share their latest discoveries in related fields. Since aging is an international challenge, and to foster collaborations, we also invited leading scholars from 11 additional countries to join this event. This report provides a summary of the conference, highlighting recent progress on molecular aging mechanisms, genetic risk factors, DNA damage and repair, mitophagy, autophagy, as well as progress on a series of clinical trials (eg, using NAD+ precursors). The meeting facilitated dialogue among policymakers, administrative leaders, researchers, and clinical experts, aiming to promote international research collaborations and to translate findings into clinical applications and interventions to advance healthy aging.

PURPOSE: The lack of personalized management of bladder cancer (BlCa) results in patients' lifelong post-treatment monitoring with invasive interventions, underlying the urgent need for tailored and minimally invasive health care services. On the basis of our previous findings on miR-143/145 cluster methylation in bladder tumors, we evaluated its clinical significance in pretreatment cell-free DNA (cfDNA) of patients with BlCa. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Methylation analysis was performed in our screening cohort (120 patients with BlCa; 20 age-matched healthy donors) by bisulfite-based pyrosequencing. Tumor recurrence/progression for patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer, and progression and mortality for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) were used as clinical end point events in survival analysis. Bootstrap analysis was applied for internal validation of Cox regression models and decision curve analysis for assessment of clinical benefit on disease prognosis. RESULTS: Decreased methylation of MIR145 core promoter in pretreatment cfDNA was associated with short-term disease progression (multivariate Cox: hazard ratio [HR], 2.027 [95% CI, 1.157 to 3.551]; P = .010) and poor overall survival (multivariate Cox: HR, 2.098 [95% CI, 1.154 to 3.817]; P = .009) of patients with MIBC after radical cystectomy (RC). Multivariate models incorporating MIR145 promoter methylation in cfDNA with tumor stage clearly ameliorated patients' risk stratification, highlighting superior clinical benefit in MIBC prognostication. CONCLUSION: Reduced pretreatment cfDNA methylation of MIR145 core promoter was markedly correlated with increased risk for short-term progression and worse survival of patients with MIBC after RC and adjuvant therapy, supporting modern personalized and minimally invasive prognosis. Methylation profiling of MIR145 core promoter in pretreatment cfDNA could serve as a minimally invasive and independent predictor of MIBC treatment outcome and emerge as a promising marker for blood-based test in BlCa.

The use of nature-based solutions (NbS) to address the risks posed by hydro-meteorological hazards have not yet become part of the mainstream policy response, and one of the main reasons cited for this, is the lack of evidence that they can effectively reduce disaster risk. This paper addresses this issue, by providing model-based evidence from five European case studies which demonstrate the effectiveness of five different NbS in reducing the magnitude of the hazard and thus risk, in present-day and possible future climates. In OAL-Austria, the hazard is a deep-seated landslide, and the NbS analysed is afforestation. Modelling results show that in today's climate and a landcover scenario of mature forest, a reduction in landslide velocity of 27.6% could be achieved. In OAL-Germany, the hazard is river flooding and the NbS analysed is managed grazing with removal of woody vegetation. Modelling results show that the NbS could potentially reduce maximum flood water depth in the near-future (2031-2060) and far-future (2070-2099), by 0.036m and 0.155m, respectively. In OAL-Greece, the hazard is river flooding, and the NbS is upscaled natural storage reservoirs. Modelling results show that in a possible future climate the upscaled NbS show most potential in reducing the total flooded area by up to 1.26 km2. In OAL-Ireland, the hazard is surface and river flooding, and the NbS is green roofs. Results from a modelled upscaling analysis under two different climate scenarios show that both maximum flood water depth, and total flooded area were able to be reduced. In OAL-UK, the hazard is shallow landslides, and the NbS is high-density planting of two different tree species. Modelling results under two different climate scenarios show that both tree species were able to improve slope stability, and that this increased over time as the NbS matured. The significance of these results is discussed within the context of the performance of the NbS over time, to different magnitude type events, impact with stakeholders in engendering wider support for the adoption of the NbS in the OALs, and the uncertainty in the modelling analyses.

This study aims to address the challenges associated with rockfall assessment and monitoring, focusing on the coastal cliffs of “Navagio Shipwreck Beach” in Zakynthos. A complete time-series analysis was conducted using state-of-the-art methodologies including a 2020 survey using unmanned aerial systems (UASs) and two subsequent surveys, incorporating terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) and UAS survey techniques in 2023. Achieving high precision and accuracy in georeferencing involving direct georeferencing, the utilization of pseudo ground control points (pGCPs), and integrating post-processing kinematics (PPK) with global navigation satellite system (GNSS) permanent stations’ RINEX data is necessary for co-registering the multitemporal models effectively. For the change detection analysis, UAS surveys were utilized, employing the multiscale model-to-model cloud comparison (M3C2) algorithm, while TLS data were used in a validation methodology due to their very high-resolution model. The synergy of these advanced technologies and methodologies offers a comprehensive understanding of rockfall dynamics, aiding in effective assessment and monitoring strategies for coastal cliffs prone to rockfall risk.

Museums are called to respond to contemporary challenges and contribute to the formation of more progressive societies. One of the major challenges of our time is climate change and sustainability, and museums could construct cocreated narratives around climate and implement targeted actions for the audiences through their sensorial and affective experiences. More specifically, Geology and Paleontology museums are repositories of knowledge on geoheritage and geoconservation, recognized for their scientific, pedagogical, cultural, and recreational values. The educational potential of geological and paleontological exhibits could be used in informal education activities regarding the climate emergency and the need for sustainability. Taking the above into consideration, this study focuses on both the creation and the evaluation of an educational program for the Natural History Museum of Arsakeio Campus in Psychicko. According to our findings, students really enjoyed their experience in the Museum, gained knowledge regarding mass extinctions driven by climate change, and suggested ways to tackle the current problems and promote our planet’s sustainability.

The pincer complexes [NiIIBr(CNC)]Br (4), [CrIIIBr3(CNC)] (5 a) and [CrIIIBr2.3Cl0.7(CNC)] (5 b), where CNC=3,3′-(pyridine-2,6-diyl)bis(1-mesityl-3,4,5,6-tetrahydropyrimidin-2-ylidene), were obtained from the novel ligand CNC, generated in situ from the precursor (CHNCH)Br2 and [NiIIBr2(PPh3)2] or from [CrII{N(SiMe3)2}2(THF)2] and (CHNCH)Br2 by aminolysis, respectively. The tetrahedrally distorted square planar (τ4≅0.30) geometry and the singlet ground state of Ni in 4 were attributed to steric constraints of the CNC backbone. Computational methods highlighted the dependence of the coordination geometry and the singlet-triplet energy difference on the size of the N-substituent of the tetrahydropyrimidine wingtips and contrasted it to the situation in 5-membered imidazolin-2-ylidene pincer analogues. The octahedral CrIII metal center in 5 a and 5 b is presumably formed after one electron oxidation from CH2Cl2. 4/MAO and 5 a/MAO were catalysts of moderate activity for the oligomerization and polymerization of ethylene, respectively. The analogous (CH^N^CH)Br2 precursor, where (CH^N^CH)=3,3′-(pyridine-2,6-diylbis(methylene))bis(1-mesityl-3,4,5,6-tetrahydropyrimidin-1-ium), was also prepared, however its coordination chemistry was not studied due to the inherent instability of the resulting free C^N^C ligand.

The aim of this study was to investigate whether an epistemological adequacy (knowledge of the Nature of Science, NOS) contributes to a better understanding and the acceptance of the Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection (ThENS). It was performed in two parts with the help of two questionnaires: 1. with students of Education, with a minimum familiarity to ThENS and NOS, before and after the application of a general biology course, and 2. with 200 Science Education teachers of various specialties who teach or have taught biology-related subjects. The education students showed some moderate levels of profi ciency regarding NOS that was improved statistically signifi cantly, even after a limited teaching intervention. An interesting founding was that, while their understanding of the ThENS was not very much improved by the course, it was found a positive correlation between their NOS familiarity and acceptance of evolution. As for the Science teachers, besides the above queries, some other variables were additionally investigated: E.g. to what extent, a better Epistemological Adequacy (knowledge of the Nature of Science) can infl uence their understanding and acceptance of the ThENS, or whether this affi liation could have been affected by their college or university instruction. The results showed a positive correlation between their epistemological adequacy and the acceptance and understanding of ThENS.