bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) on a Long Semi-integral High-speed Railway Bridge (HSRB) under Different Traffic Loads
Authors: Zhang Sisi , Käding Max , Wenner Marc , Claßen Martin , Marx Steffen
Published: September 2024

In this paper, the structural behaviour of a long semi-integral HSRB, i.e., Unstrut Viaduct, under different traffic loads was studied by both SHM and static calculation using numerical simulation. The demanding requirements of semi-integral HSRB for both flexibility and rigidity were assessed by measuring the deformation of the superstructure and piers under quasi-static loads, as well as the structural responses under braking and high-speed loads, respectively. The results showed that the separating pier of the semi-integral bridge enables larger deformation freedom, which is beneficial to reducing the restrained stresses due to temperature, creep and shrinkage. The separated superstructure here would induce larger pier curvature and a greater warping effect under single-track loading. The coupling of continuous welded rail (CWR) at the bridge joint and the H-connection of the separating pier pair also caused the complex interaction of the two connected structural blocks. The rigidity of the semi-integral HSRB under braking and high-speed loads was also proven. The dynamic longitudinal stiffness under braking loads derived from measurements is unexpectedly 12 times that in the static calculation, showing the robustness and great load-bearing potential of the semi-integral bridge. The initial assumption in the static calculation, which treats the slab track as external loads without stiffness, is a conservative approach. However, incorporating both the mass and stiffness of the slab track into the model generally offers a more realistic prognosis.
Measuring the Dark Side of Creativity
Authors: Kapoor Hansika
Published: September 2024

The traditional notion of creativity is tied to constructive acts that are generally beneficial.Originality and task-appropriateness comprise the essence of such ideas and behaviors, oftenaccompanied by a broader societal consensus. Recently, the fundamental assumptions ofcreativity being associated with only good outcomes has been called into question. Enquiryinto how creative thought can yield harmful or selfish outcomes suggests that not only doesthe dark side of creativity exist, but it is also worthy of investigation owing to its detrimentalconsequences. This chapter focuses on strides made in the measurement of this relativelynovel construct of dark creativity in three ways: (a) adaptations of existing creativityassessments, (b) the development of new assessment tools, and (c) future directions in themeasurement of dark creativity.
Aphantasia as suboptimal interoception and emotion processing
Authors: Silvanto Juha
Published: September 2024

Studies on mental imagery often rely on low-level, easily quantifiable stimuli to measure specific sensory features. However, this approach may not capture the rich, multisensory nature of real-world imagery, which integrates sensory details with emotions and bodily sensations. It is proposed that this broader perspective on internal states is crucial for understanding aphantasia—the inability to create vivid mental images. Our preliminary evidence suggests that aphantasia is linked to reduced interoceptive attention, raising the possibility that aphantasia reflects suboptimal ability to attend to and engage with internal signals, which are necessary for normal imagery experience. This conceptualisation of aphantasia in terms of interoception explains its links with alexithymia and autobiographical deficits.
Reference dependence arises due to contextual shifts in both perception and judgment
Authors: Dumbalska Tsvetomira , Smithston Hannah
Published: September 2024

Reference dependence is a phenomenon where decisions about a current stimulus are biased by previously experienced, and currently irrelevant, stimuli. The ubiquity of reference dependence has been extensively documented. Yet, consensus on its computational origins remains elusive. Previous theoretic accounts have proposed that context influences behavior because it distorts our perception (how we experience the world), judgment (the standards against which we judge it) or action (how we respond to it). We carried out a series of carefully controlled experiments that pitted each of these proposals against one another by manipulating response bias and stimulus timing (Exp. 1), and jointly measuring decision bias and sensitivity (Exp. 2a-c) for decisions about stimulus lightness, size and numerosity. We found that reference dependence persists in the absence of influences stemming from action; it is attributable to contextual changes to both perception and judgment. Using computational modelling, we quantified the proportion of the reference dependence effect driven by each of those and found that it varies with stimulus type, with a relatively larger perception share for lower-level sensory stimulus properties like lightness. On average, more than half of the observed reference dependence effect size can be attributed to contextual changes to judgment. Understanding the computational mechanisms underlying reference dependence is critical for translational efforts to counterbalance the downstream, real-world consequences of this phenomenon.
Randomized controlled trial (RCT) to test the superiority of blended cognitive behavioral therapy (bCBT) over standard CBT for unipolar depression in adults
Authors: Kalde Jan , Atik Ece , Stricker Johannes Heinrich , Schückes Magnus , Neudeck Peter , Pittig Andre , Pietrowsky Reinhard
Published: September 2024

Objectives: This study evaluates the medical benefits of a blended cognitive behavioraltherapy (bCBT) program consisting of standard cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and adigital health application (elona therapy), compared to standard CBT for unipolar depressionin adult patients in outpatient psychotherapy.Trial design: A multicenter, randomized, two-arm controlled trial.Methods: A total of 283 adult patients diagnosed with unipolar depression were recruitedfrom psychotherapy practices across Germany and randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive eitherstandard CBT with the “elona therapy” digital health application (bCBT group) or standardCBT alone (treatment as usual; TAU). Over 12 weeks, we assessed symptoms of depressionand anxiety, quality of life, perceived self-efficacy, depression literacy, treatment adherence,overall disease severity and improvement using standardized questionnaires at baseline (T0)and post-intervention (T1). We hypothesized that the bCBT group would show greaterimprovements across these domains compared to the TAU group. Participants were unawareof the study objective and were provided the information that the study investigates theoptimal timing of the addition of a digital intervention.Results: Patients in the bCBT group improved their symptoms of depression (primaryoutcome), anxiety, quality of life, perceived self efficacy, depression literacy and overalldisease severity significantly better than the TAU group over 12 weeks of treatment. Patientsin the bCBT group had significantly higher treatment adherence, evidenced by higher scoresin patient- and therapist-rated adherence questionnaires, as well as lower drop-out rates andhigher session attendance compared to TAU. The number of adverse events was low, and nomore adverse events were reported in the bCBT group than the TAU group.Conclusions: Results of this trial provide comprehensive evidence of the medical benefits ofthe bCBT program supported by elona therapy compared to the standard CBT treatment.bCBT with elona therapy appears to be a safe treatment option.
Discovering the world of viruses: Testing the influence of anthropomorphic representations on children’s learning about COVID
Authors: Menendez David , Richardson Emory , McNeil Kalina , Gelman Susan A.
Published: September 2024

Having a robust understanding of viruses is critical for children to understand the COVID-19 pandemic and the protective measures recommended to promote their safety. However, viral transmission is not part of current educational standards in the United States, so children likely must learn about it through informal means, such as media and conversations with caregivers--contexts that often animate and anthropomorphize viruses. In this registered report, we developed an at-home educational intervention to teach children about viruses by creating a picture storybook about COVID-19. We tested children ages 5-8 on their understanding of viruses before and after reading the book at home with their caregivers. Critically, we manipulated which of three books children received: realistic (that detailed the microscopic processes involved in COVID-19 transmission), anthropomorphic (that depicted all the same information but using anthropomorphic language and images for COVID-19), or control (that only showed the visible aspects of illness). Bayesian analyses revealed that children learned about COVID by reading the picture books with their parents at home and extended this knowledge to other viruses, and that learning was substantially higher for those reading the realistic and anthropomorphic books than the control books. We also found that learning did not differ as a function of whether the book used anthropomorphic depictions or not, although children reading the anthropomorphic book reported being less afraid of viruses. Altogether, these results demonstrate that carefully constructed picture books can help children learn about complex scientific topics at home.
More social media, stronger regressive views? When gender equality is opposed (and when it is not) in Europe
Authors: Wallaschek Stefan , Minkus Lara
Published: September 2024

This paper examines the relationship between social media use and gender equality attitudes in Europe, using a survey dataset from six countries (France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Poland, Spain) in 2021. By combining research on societal conflicts, gender equality, and social media use, we show that extensive use of social media (Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram) is significantly linked to regressive gender equality attitudes. The survey assesses gender equality in the labor market, LGBT rights, and perceptions of feminists. Linear regressions reveal that intense social media usage is associated with more regressive attitudes on these issues. We apply manifold sensitivity checks and demonstrate that our results remain robust against various model specifications. We discuss potential reasons why intense social media usage may trigger resentments against gender equality in Europe.
Assessing Vehicular Emission Reduction Potential for Home-based Work-trips for Kathmandu Valley, Nepal
Authors: Bajracharya Ashim Ratna , Shrestha Sudha
Published: September 2024

Kathmandu valley is known to be the prime center economic activities and employment opportunities and it has become a major concern to manage work trips to cut down emissions from the urban transport sector. This paper analyses home-based work trips and estimates total emission, resulting from it. The trip data was collected through a household survey, conducted in different parts of the study area, using stratified random sampling, to study how people travel from their homes to work places. The total annual greenhouse gas (GHG) is estimated to be around 186000 ton from work-related trips. The excessive use of private vehicles, which accounts for more than 60% of total trips, significantly contributes to these emissions. Furthermore, the study disaggregates the study area into two parts. The first part, is the area inside ring road, that covers the central part of the valley and second part includes the settlements on the outskirts, outside ring road. The estimates reveal that trips originating from outside the ring road emit GHGs nearly three times more than those within the ring road, primarily due to increased travel distance for peripheral settlements. Consequently, the paper explores possible methods to minimize GHG emissions from work trips, including conventional approaches and the emerging trend of working from home, along with the associated challenges.
Numerical Analysis of Load-sharing Behavior of Combined Pile Raft Foundation System
Authors: Dahal Bhim Kumar , Paudel Bikram , Pandit Archana , Pathak Aastha , Mahat Anil , Shrestha Binayaraj , Banstola Binit , Chhantyal Bipin , Dahal Diwash
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the application of combined pile raft foundations in the soft soil of Kathmandu Valley, taking into account varying pile spacing and length. Both embedded beams and volume piles were used in numerical analysis to assess the load-sharing behavior of the raft and pile under different conditions. The settlement results from the volume pile, and embedded beam element was comparable, with less than a 6.21% difference, indicating that both methods are equally suitable for evaluation. The embedded beam element was selected for further analysis. The analysis suggests that pile load sharing is primarily influenced by spacing, while an increase in pile stiffness due to increased pile length has a minor effect. The load-sharing factor follows a log-linear relationship when the spacing exceeds 3D. Regarding the normalized vertical settlement of the pile, the power rule governs the load-sharing factor. This power function related to normalized settlement is highly beneficial for designing the CPRF and choosing the appropriate pile spacing and length. Finally, the capacity utilization curve suggests that a spacing greater than three times the diameter results in higher pile capacity utilization. Conversely, a decrease in spacing significantly reduces the mobilized strength of the piles.
Bridge to Professional Practice: Evaluating Internship Effectiveness and Coordination for Civil and Hydropower Engineering Graduates, A Study of Mid-West University of Nepal using ANN
Authors: Neupane Uttam , Sharma Socrates Bhattarai , Bhattarai Subash Kumar
Published: September 2024

The transition from academia to professional engineering practice is a pivotal and formidable challenge for graduating engineers. This research explores the effectiveness of internship programs for final semester undergraduates’ students in Civil and Hydropower Engineering of Mid-West University, based on data collected from 77 intern students by evaluating the acquired knowledge and skills during internships, while also exploring the associated benefits and the level of co-ordination between university and the internship organizations. Questionnaires assessed self-evaluated knowledge and skills gained, perceived benefits of the internship, co-ordination by the university and the department, and challenges encountered. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics and an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model to identify factors influencing internship effectiveness. Results indicated that the effective coordination between universities and industry significantly enhances internship outcomes, impacting students’ practical skill development. The study underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in fostering industry-relevant competencies among future construction engineers. These findings suggest practical implications for universities in refining internship initiatives, improving curricula, and establishing robust internship guidelines to better prepare students for professional careers in engineering disciplines.
Perception-Based Assessment of the Water Supply System in Bhimdatta Municipality, Sudurpashchim Province, Nepal
Authors: Joshi Tark Raj , Awasthi Mahesh Prasad , Joshi Janardan , Pant Ramesh Raj , Bist Harish Singh , Thagunna Ganesh Singh
Published: September 2024

Safe and adequate water supply is one of the serious and significant challenges for local governments in Nepal. The main objective of this study is to explore the community perception on existing water supply systems, its quality, and quantity alongside with associated problems in the Bhimdatta Municipality. The study adopted qualitative and quantitative methods with Systematic random sampling and purposive sampling techniques for data collection in 2024. A total of 379 households were selected across the 19 wards of municipality. The findings reveals that 44.9% of households use groundwater as their primary drinking water source, 31.9% rely on public supply, and the rest use both sources. The majority of respondents rated the water quality as good with 56.2%, while 26.4% rated as excellent, 10.8% as fair, 6.1% as poor, and 0.5% as very poor. Most of the respondents reported a lower incidence of diseases stemming from drinking water source, they noted problems such as taste, odor, turbidity, and color. Over the past decade, groundwater levels have declined, making access more difficult across all wards. This study provides vital insights for policymakers and stakeholders to address these challenges and improve water quality and accessibility.
Knowledge and practices of Internet among teachers: a case study of Tikapur Municipality
Authors: Chaudhary Nathu Ram
Published: September 2024

This study was conducted to explore teachers' skills, perceptions, and practices about the use of computer and internet technology in campus of Tikapur Municipality. Questionnaires were distributed to 52 teachers in different departments of TMC and BMC with response rate of 100%. The validity of the questionnaire was approved by a panel of experts at campus. Descriptive statistics and correlation were used to analyze the data. Of the 52 teachers, 96.2% were males and 3.8% were females. Majority of the respondents were between the ages 30-40 years. Further, teachers' perceptions in terms of using computer and internet technology were found to be positive. Finally, the study revealed inverse correlations among internet use, age, and teaching experience. The descriptive results indicated that teachers' knowledge in basic ICT applications as well as integrating computer and internet technology into teaching and learning processes was confounded to web search for information, communication and file handling. These results provide evidence that the introduction of computer and internet technology in teaching and learning has not brought any major changes in the delivery of education in campus of Tikapur Municipality. This also implies that teachers have not shifted from teacher-centered instruction to student-centered learning. From the findings of the study, it is recommended that courses such as computer-supported learning, internet and designing instructional materials should be introduced in initial teacher training programs to improve teachers' level of confidence and perceptions towards the use of ICT.
Implications of strategy management by manufacturing industries in Nepal
Authors: Kandel Damodar
Published: September 2024

Strategy Management is the ideology of effective process of creating, transforming and using resourse more effectively. This report indicates to achieve better results through effective management of human resourse strategy in organization. As a result, Nepalese Manufacturing Industries are more innovative and achieve better performance if they consider Strategic Management. Strategic Management suggests for diagnosis the change, introduce change and evaluate change in change process. However, small statistics, small coverage area of manufacturing concern, and opinion of officer level staffs, area of strategic only price and advertisement are the main limitation of this report.
Correlation of Diabetes self-care adherence with glycemic measures: a cross-sectional health facility-based study in Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Silvanus Vinutha , Maharjan Srijana , Jha Anushree
Published: September 2024

Self-care plays a key role in prevention of complications, and improvement of the quality of life of persons with diabetes (PWDs). This study has assessed adherence to self-care behavior and its correlation with glycemic measures among PWDs attending private health care facilities in Kathmandu, Nepal. A cross-sectional study was carried out using a semi-structured questionnaire. Socio-demographic information and recent fasting (FBG) and 2-hr post-prandial blood glucose (2-hr PBG) levels were recorded. Self-care inventory (SCI) 12-item version was used to assess adherence to diabetes self-care over the preceding four weeks. Self-care practice was measured in five domains: glucose monitoring; diabetes medication; diet; exercise; and preventative care. The overall adherence score was obtained by computing the average of seven items (items 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 14). Scores more than or equal to median score were considered as higher levels of self-care efficacy. Univariate linear regression analysis of the subscale scores and individual item-wise score with age, duration of diabetes (years), FBG and PPBG levels was carried out. Pearson’s coefficient (r) was reported for normally distributed variables. Among 385 PWDs, mean FBG was 146 mg/dl (±54.7), 2-hr PBG was 210 mg/dl (±82). Median score for overall adherence to diabetes self-care was 25 (IQR:21 to 29). Higher self-care efficacy was seen among 55% (n=212). Overall adherence to self-care was significantly and negatively correlated with age and glycemic measures. Self-care efficacy was mainly driven by adherence to diabetes medication. Adherence to preventative care, exercise and home monitoring of blood glucose was low. FBG was significantly and negatively correlated with glucose regulation (r=-0.16, P=0.001), diabetes medication and food regulation (r=-0.11, P=0.03), preventative care (-0.14, P=0.03) and overall adherence to treatment (-0.15, P=0.004). 2-hr PBG was significantly and negatively associated with all domains of self-care (r -0.14, P=0.04 to -0.21, P<0.0001). Elderly persons, may face difficulty with regular physical exercise, dietary recommendations and overall adherence to self-care. Continuing diabetes education is imperative to motivate PWDs and caregivers regarding importance of self-care efficacy in glycemic regulation and diabetes care.
Detection of mecA Gene in Staphylococcus aureus Isolated From Health Care Workers at a Tertiary Care Center in Kathmandu
Authors: Rai Junu Richhinbung , Suzuki Takashi , Amatya Ritu , Rai Shiba Kumar
Published: September 2024

Staphylococcus aureus is a frequent cause of bacterial infections ranging from minor skin infections to fatal necrotizing infections and infections are on the rise particularly the hospital-acquired infections. The infections becomes more complicated when the infection are caused by drug (methicillin) resisant S. aureus. Therefore, detection of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) becomes important. In this study, thus, we investigated the mecA gene in 53 S. aureus isolates isolated from health care workers (n= 213). Of the total 53 S. aureus isolates tested in this study, 24 (45.3%) were positive for mecA gene (533bp). Present study showed a relatively higher rate mecA gene positivity.
Association between Abortion and Acceptance of Post abortion Contraception
Authors: Rijal Hima , Katuwal Neeta
Published: September 2024

Post-abortion contraceptive uptake is essential in reproductive health, as it helps to identify women’s contraceptive needs, reduce unintended pregnancies and prevent subsequent abortions. Integrating abortion services with family planning counselling at all levels of health facilities can enhance contraceptive acceptance. This study aimed to evaluate the acceptance of various family planning methods following different abortion services over one year period, at a family planning center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital. This study analyzed the women who participated in contraceptive counselling and accepted different types of contraceptives following different methods of first and second trimester abortions services. The study included women who received post-abortion contraceptive counselling and services, excluding those with termination beyond the second trimester or those seeking only postpartum contraceptive counselling or post-abortion care. It aimed to analyze the association between different methods of abortion and contraception acceptance post-abortion. Among 100 women who had spontaneous and induced abortions, 89% received post-abortion counselling and 75% accepted various types of contraception immediately after abortion. About one third of women were aged 25–29 years (30%), 99% were married, 40% were graduates and 48% were housewives. Abortion methods included medical abortion (62%), manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) (35%) and dilatation and evacuation (3%). Contraceptive acceptance rates were: short-acting reversible contraception (SARC) 60%, long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) 14%, and permanent methods 1%. Among medical abortion recipients, most chose SARC (43%) followed by LARC (4%). For those undergoing MVA, 16% chose SARC, and 9% chose LARC. Condoms were the most accepted SARC method (22%). The study demonstrated that post-abortion counseling significantly increases acceptance of various contraceptive methods, with SARC being the predominant choice, especially condoms among users.
Knowledge of Periconceptional Folic-Acid among Women of Childbearing age Visiting Tertiary Care Hospital in Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Kushal , Basnet Bijay , Acharya Suyukti , Shrestha Astha
Published: September 2024

The value of periconceptional folic acid supplementation in reducing the incidence of neural tube abnormalities in newborns is widely known. Yet, Nepalese women of childbearing age are mainly ignorant of it. The current study examined different sociodemographic and health factors related to women’s level of knowledge about folic acid among women visiting Obstetrics and Gynaecology outpatients at a Tertiary Care Center in Nepal. It also evaluated the awareness and relevance of knowledge regarding folic acid and its periconceptional supplementation. 400 women aged 18 and 45 who sought Obstetrics and Gynecology Outpatient Services at the Tertiary Care Facility participated in this cross-sectional study. Sociodemographic information was gathered with the help of a self-report questionnaire and processed in IBM-SPSS software at a significance threshold of 0.05. Results of the studies showed that while 47.3% had heard of it, only 34.25% had adequate knowledge of periconceptional folic acid supplementation. Also, besides age (p=.493), knowledge of folic acid was significantly associated with factors including education(p=.026), ethnicity (p=<.001), income (p=.011), employment (p=.001), marital status (p=.007), past pregnancies (p=.031) and ANC visits (p=<.001). The study demonstrates the need for more public awareness to boost folic acid knowledge, adherence, and intake and ultimately lower the prevalence of related birth abnormalities. To quantify the hidden issue, further studies on the prevalence of NTDs in Nepalese society and the contribution of folic acid to their reduction are required.
Functional Outcome of Acromioclavicular joint dislocation Type III injuries treated with Hook Plate
Authors: Adhikari Vijayendra , Sitaula Prasamsha , Singh Sumi , Shrestha Praphulla , Chalise Pralhad Kumar , Mishra Anil Kumar , Singh Ramesh Prasad
Published: September 2024

The acromioclavicular joint (AC) dislocation is a complex injury due to the disruption of ligaments and joints, leading to instability and pain. Rockwood type III injuries remain controversial, so clinical evaluation should be taken into consideration before deciding the treatment modalities. The study aimed to evaluate the functional outcome of AC joint dislocation type III injuries treated with a hook plate. A total of 30 patients with AC Joint Dislocation Type III injuries were treated with open reduction and fixation with hook plate during a period of 18 months. The functional outcome was evaluated using constant murley score, the mean score of which was 82 (58-96). There were 7 (23.33%) cases of plate impingement and the symptoms was improved after plate removal. The hook plate is a good fixation device for the treatment of AC joint dislocation -Rockwood type III injuries with minimal complications, as it is a simple procedure, with good functional outcome, without ligamentous procedure and the only drawback is second surgery for implant removal.
The Impact of Patient Demographics on Nurse-Patient Relationships in Healthcare Settings: Analyzing the Role of Age, Marital Status, and Educational Level
Authors: Shrestha Rabina , Bohara Kapil
Published: September 2024

Patient's satisfaction is the main objective of any healthcare organization. Patients are the regular customers of healthcare organizations not once so we should satisfy them by fulfilling need wants and demand. As a single satisfied customer brings thousands of other customers and patients are our customers. Patient satisfaction plays a vital role in healthcare organization and medical research. Patient satisfaction is required to build trust in patients. As trust of patients towards hospital and healthcare providers depends on patient satisfaction. For this research, we took trust and how it affects nurse-patient relationship is the main theme of study. A nurse is a skilled healthcare professional who plays a vital role in caring for people who are sick, injured, or unable to care for themselves. A good nurse-patient relationship is required for proper treatment of the patient and care. The main purpose of this study is to investigate nurse-patient relationship in healthcare settings. Through this research we focused whether the nurse-patient relationship differs with the age, marital status, occupation, and education level of the patient. For this study, hypothesis was developed to investigate the nurse-patient relationship. A quantitative research strategy was adopted, and convenience sampling techniques were used to collect data from the patients. This study shows the nurse-patient relationship in healthcare settings.
Determinants of Patient Preference for Private Hospitals Over Public Hospitals: An Empirical Study
Authors: Ghimire Anisha , Barmashakha Siwani
Published: September 2024

Introduction: There are several choices when it comes to choosing the type of hospital. In Nepal, the general public is free to seek medical attention from any facility they feel is suitable for them. People have to make vital decisions while choosing a hospital because these decisions relate to health and relieve them from any burden regarding their health. There is a preference for private hospitals over public ones. Despite the relatively cheaper cost of care in public hospitals, such a setup was not preferred by the people; this observation motivated us and created a need to conduct a research study to validate the observation statistically. This study examines reasons why private hospitals are preferred by patients over public ones.
Methods: The quantitative description research methodology has been adopted for this study. Developmental research approach is used in conducting this study through quantitative descriptive research. The researcher has followed a deductive research approach to examine the hypotheses we had set up with respect to their significance. Only 117 responses out of the 120 persons of the sample were found to be significant for the research study. A structured questionnaire was designed based on a five-point Likert scale. Random sampling was selected because of the probability sampling methodology used for the research study.
Findings: In Tarkeshwor Municipality, the general public does not select a private hospital over a public hospital considering their income. There is no visible relation between the level of hospital services, treatment costs, and hospital selection criteria with income level of respondents. Three dependent variables—service quality, cost, and individual selection motive—have an influence on hospital choice decisions. The vast majority of the respondents appeared to make some kind of valuation about the value for money of the hospitals they visited, irrespective of their income. Since there exists a strong positive correlation between the cost and service mean, they attach higher costs to higher quality of service. Service quality: When asked about service quality, most of the respondents replied that what inclined their preference towards private hospitals and not government-run ones was the short waiting time and up to date medical equipments.
Conclusion: Hence, based on this, it can be concluded that the choice of hospitals among the public is determined in view of the cost of treatment and hospital selection motives, such as access to up-to-date medical technology and lesser wait times and so on, rather than by income, which is not related to any of the dependent variables: service quality, treatment costs, and selection motives for hospitals.
Relationship with Parents, Symptoms of Depression and Internet Addiction among Adolescents During the Pandemic Period
Authors: Solecki Roman , Mróz Anna
Published: September 2024

The research presented in this article aimed to answer the following question: what is the role of social support and quality of family relationships in the context of depressive symptoms and abuse of the Internet during the COVID-19 pandemic and remote learning among adolescents?
The study was conducted among 619 adolescents aged 11-15. The survey questionnaire was constructed from standardised research tools. The study showed that 40.0% of the students had increased depressive symptoms. Heavy Internet use affected 16.0% of the respondents, including 9.2% of those who had aggravated symptoms of depression and addiction at the same time. At the same time, it was noted that girls, compared to boys, were more often found amongst adolescents experiencing symptoms of depression.Students belonging to the group with depressive and addictive symptoms experienced significantly more difficulties in their relationships with family members compared to the group without symptoms. Students showed less severity of depressive symptoms if they rated their relationship with their parents as positive. The results showed that the quality of family relationships is most important for the normal functioning of adolescents without depressive symptoms, also in a pandemic situation.
(Nie)uchwytna opowieść o sobie samej. Na marginesie „Rozmów w tańcu” Agnieszki Osieckiej
Authors: Nęcka-Czapska Agnieszka
Published: September 2024

Jedną z ciekawszych form opowieści o samym/samej sobie wydają się autobiografie i wywiady-rzeki, w których pisarze i pisarki starają się jednocześnie podrzucać i mylić tropy, wikłając się w – mniej lub bardziej „nadzorowane” – intymne wyznania. Intrygującym przykładem takiej strategii jest Agnieszka Osiecka, która w autobiograficznym wywiadzie z samą sobą zatytułowanym Rozmowy w tańcu próbuje o(d)słaniać własne „ja” i (z)mierzyć się nie tylko z demonami przeszłości, ale także ze swoimi rozterkami, słabościami, zawodami i upadkami. Powracając do wspomnień na temat swojego dzieciństwa, rodziców, trudnych lat dojrzewania i nie mniej trudnej dorosłości, szkicuje portret kobiety starającej się odnaleźć własne miejsce w destrukcyjnym świecie, poszukującej miłości, próbującej pogodzić rolę matki i poetki. Z tych opowieści wyłania się także pejzaż dojmującej rzeczywistości, jaka ją otaczała oraz anegdotki na temat ludzi, którzy pojawiali się w jej życiu. Mówiąc o innych, Osiecka starała się odciągać uwagę od siebie samej. Rozmowy w tańcu pokazują, że dla nie sposób stworzyć jednego, spójnego wizerunku Osieckiej, ponieważ poetka zadbała o to, by być w opowieściach i wspomnieniach innych nieuchwytną.
Czytanie realfantastyki. Najnowsza polska proza na zajęciach dla cudzoziemców
Authors: Válková Maciejewska Monika
Published: September 2024

W artykule skupiono się na najnowszej prozie polskiej i poddano pod rozwagę kwestię, czy odniesienia w tekstach literackich do polskich realiów (pojawiające się w beletrystyce nawiązania do osób ze świata polityki, religii, kultury; do ukonkretnień przestrzennych czy urbanistycznych) w zakresie szeroko pojętej fantastyki mogą być dla cudzoziemskiego odbiorcy uchwytne. Autorka przekonuje, że dekodowanie znaczeń nie tylko jest inspirujące i ciekawe językowo (słowotwórczo, w rozwijaniu kompetencji tworzenia tekstów-opisów), lecz także staje się przyczynkiem do mediacji i otwarcia na różne formy przekazu oraz Innego. W studium przytoczono fragmenty utworów Ignacego Karpowicza (Niehalo), Marcina Kołodziejczyka (Prymityw) i Zygmunta Miłoszewskiego (Jak zawsze).
Karolina i Dulębianka. Autorskie strategie biograficzne w Samotnicy. Dwóch życiach Marii Dulębianki Karoliny Dzimiry-Zarzyckiej*
Authors: Pekaniec Anna
Published: September 2024

Głównym celem artykułu jest wyodrębnienie i opisanie strategii autorskich w Samotnicy. Dwóch życiach Marii Dulębianki Karoliny Dzimiry-Zarzyckiej. Biografia malarki i aktywistki społecznej, wpisująca się w coraz wyraźniejszy nurt odzyskiwania historii kobiet, stanowi także interesujący przykład kształtowania efektywnej strategii autorskiej. Odwołując się do teoretycznych ujęć biografii Jamesa L. Clifforda, Hermiony Lee, Michaela Bentona, Michaliny Krytowskiej, Lucyny Marzec, jak również do refleksji krytycznofeministycznej Ingi Iwasiów, Agnieszki Gajewskiej oraz historiograficznych uwag Joan Wallach Scott, w tekście przeanalizowano sposoby przejawiania się figury biografki. Autorka, umiejętnie łącząc informacje zaczerpnięte z różnych źródeł (dokumenty, rejestry, korespondencja, dzienniki, biografie, krytyczne omówienia twórczości artystycznej Dulębianki oraz wspomnienia o jej aktywności politycznej) oraz własne ustalenia, nie tylko konstruuje przekonującą opowieść o życiu wybranej bohaterki. Niejako usamodzielnia ją, nie opisując np. jedynie w kontekście relacji z Marią Konopnicką czy jako jedną z polskich malarek w Paryżu przełomu XIX i XX wieku. Istotną kwestią jest również wskazanie, jak biografia Dulębianki staje się specyficzną autobiografią intelektualną Dzimiry-Zarzyckiej, będącej nie tylko narratorką, lecz także równoprawną bohaterką odtwarzanej przez siebie historii.
Islandia z perspektywy narracji migracyjnej Mirosława Gabrysia
Authors: Rott Dariusz
Published: September 2024

W artykule omówiono książkę Mirosława Gabrysia (ur. 1973) pt. Islandzkie zabawki. Zapiski z wyspy wulkanów, która opisuje pięcioletni pobyt autora na wyspie (2005–2010). Jego relacja stanowi pierwszą w polskim piśmiennictwie oryginalną próbę opisu adaptacji polskiego islandzkiego migranta, przedstawiciela najliczniejszej i młodej wiekiem oraz stażem mniejszości narodowej na Islandii, do nowego środowiska społecznego i przyrodniczego. Jest to narracja subiektywna, wielowarstwowa i hybrydyczna, a dla jej autora emigracja to swoista przygoda, ważna strategia adaptacyjna i dostosowawcza, zwłaszcza w sytuacji kryzysu ekonomicznego kraju przyjmującego – Islandii, choć tak naprawdę nigdy się tutaj nie zadomowił i nie został na dłużej. Gabryś, mimo że stosunkowo rzadko wykracza poza oczywisty w takim przypadku paradygmat myślenia dualistycznego: imigrant – obywatel, my – inni, łączność z miejscem – nieumiejscowienie, w perspektywie doświadczeń i odczuć jednostkowych oraz sensu, jaki im nadaje, jest przykładem emigranta tymczasowego, nie zawsze odpowiadającego stereotypowemu wizerunkowi Polaka na Islandii, a nawet często krytykującego swoich rodaków.
Prescriptum
Authors: Hajduk-Gawron Wioletta
Published: September 2024

Najnowsze wydanie czasopisma zawiera przede wszystkim teksty poświęcone szerokiemu spektrum zagadnień związanych z polską literaturą non fiction, które są pokłosiem VIII Międzynarodowej Konferencji „Literatura polska w świecie. Polska literatura non fiction – perspektywa nadawcy i odbiorcy”, zorganizowanej przez Uniwersytet Śląski w Katowicach. Autorzy wzięli na warsztat takie gatunki jak biografia, autobiografia, reportaż czy bedeker, wskazując na przesunięcie tych gatunków w stronę literackiego centrum zarówno ze względu na preferencje czytelników, jak i strategie pisarskie. Pomieszczone w niniejszym numerze artykuły poddają naukowej refleksji obecność polskiej literatury non fiction poza granicami Polski, poszerzając tym samym stan badań nad mechanizmami recepcji literatury oraz strategii translatorskich.
Basics of Literary Studies
Authors: Pokrivčák Anton , Pokrivčáková Silvia , Kocianová Louise
Published: September 2024

The present audiobook is an additional audial study material accompanying to logo Crossrefthe electronic textbook Basics of Literary Studies (ISBN 978­‑80­‑568­‑0577­‑0). otvárané v novom okne (obvykle ide o externý odkaz) The audiobook is adapted for learners with specific learning needs, but the format can be appreciated by the students who prefer audial style of learning or multimodal learning based on both reading and listening. Both study materials serve as guides for students beginning their study of Anglophone literatures. They offer a concise and accessible discussion of central issues in the contemporary study of literary texts, including definitions of key terms such as literature and literary scholarship, periods of literary history, theoretical approaches to the study of literary texts, an overview of critical approaches, characteristics of language typical for literature, classification of literary kinds and genres, etc. Despite their similarities with other study guides, the present textbook is unique at least in one aspect: it integrates the knowledge coming from the international context of the study of Anglophone literatures with a specific cultural and geographical context of Slovakia (and Czech Republic), which establishes a space for constructive comparation and mutual beneficiation. The current text is an edited and extended version of the previous textbooks Focus on Literature (2003) and Understanding Literature (2006) by the same authors.
Stories of transition: U.S. Veterans’ narratives of transition to civilian life and the important role of identity
Authors: Keeling Mary
Published: September 2024

Introduction: To date, investigations of Veterans’ transition to civilian life after military service have tended to focus on the experiences of those with mental or physical health difficulties or on employment challenges and homelessness. This study aimed to gain a deep understanding of Veterans’ transition to civilian life, the challenges they face, and the adap-tive and maladaptive ways in which they manage them. Methods: A narrative approach was used to afford the Veterans an opportunity to share their experiences through their transition story. Six male Veterans residing in the Chicagoland area who had left the military between 1 and 12 years earlier were interviewed using a narrative approach. Results: Narrative analysis led to the emergence of three master narratives: narratives of the challenges, narratives of readiness, and narratives of continued military values. The narratives the Veterans shared highlighted not only the importance of practical readiness for transition but also the need for a fundamental addition to how Veteran transition is considered that includes psychological considerations of the impact on identity and the potential for existential crisis. Discussion: Appraising transition only in terms of measurable factors such as employment, living conditions, and health likely over-looks those experiencing psychological challenges and sub-clinical mental health difficulties. The proposed fundamen-tal addition has implications for work with Veterans in various health care settings and for existing transition programs, including a consideration of the role of identity.
Creative Forces programming with military families: Art therapy, dance/movement therapy, and music therapy brief vignettes
Authors: Chilton Gioia , Vaudreuil Rebecca , Freeman Elizabeth K. , McLaughlan Nathaniel , Herman Jessica , Cozza Stephen J.
Published: September 2024

LAY SUMMARY

Creative arts therapists (art therapists, dance/movement therapists, and music therapists) administer assessments and interventions that support the holistic well-being of military families affected by traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Through participation in the Creative Forces: United States National Endowment for the Arts Military Healing Arts Network, military families discovered strengths, inspired connections, and improved understanding of their relationships. Creative arts therapies (CATs) motivated engagement, which ultimately boosted family resilience. CATs are an integral part of interdisciplinary care to address behavioural and rehabilitative conditions of military families impacted by TBI and PTSD. Future research should examine the efficacy of creative arts therapies in improving resilience in military families.
Sharing of military Veterans’ mental health data across Canada: A scoping review
Authors: Rudnick Abraham , Nolan Dougal , Daigle Patrick
Published: September 2024

LAY SUMMARY

Information on Canadian military Veterans’ mental health is needed to develop and improve mental health services. It is not clear to what extent such information is available and connected across its sources. A comprehensive review of scientific and other authorized publications was conducted to identify information sources related to Canadian Veteran mental health, connections between them, and related policies or guidelines. Ten data sources related to military Veterans’ mental health in Canada were found, but no policies or guidelines specifically addressing information sharing across these data sets were discovered. Secure, Accessible, eFfective, and Efficient (SAFE) information sharing across these sources was implied but not confirmed. The authors recommend consideration be given to establishing a repository of relevant data sets and policies and guidelines for information sharing and standardization across all relevant data sets.
Vivre auprès de vétérans atteints de TSPT : une étude qualitative des expériences des partenaires féminines de vétérans britanniques
Authors: Murphy Dominic , Palmer Emily , Hill Kate , Ashwick Rachel , Busuttil Walter
Published: September 2024

Introduction : Le risque accru d’un fardeau émotionnel des partenaires des vétéran(e)s militaires avec des problèmes de santé mentale a été identifié. Cette étude visait à explorer les expériences et les besoins des conjointes de vétérans qui demandent de l’aide. Méthodologie : Notre échantillon qui comprenait huit conjointes a été établi à partir d’une population de vétérans demandant de l’aide et qui recevaient des traitements pour l’état de stress post-traumatique (ESPT). Les auteur(e)s ont recueilli des données qualitatives en utilisant une grille d’entrevue semi-structurée. Résultats : Les thèmes principaux « les grands défis », « le type de soutien désiré » et « les obstacles au soutien » ont tous été définis selon des sous-thèmes. Les grands défis ont été définis par le recours aux thèmes suivants : l’inégalité dans la relation, l’absence de cohérence dans leur propre identité, un environnement volatile et la détresse émotionnelle, ainsi que l’isolement. Le type de soutien désiré a été décrit par les thèmes pratiques qui se portent sur l’amélioration, le partage avec les autres expert(e)s et un soutien adapté à la partenaire. Les défis au soutien ont été décrits par les thèmes de restrictions de barrière pratique et des ambivalences des autres groupes. Discussion : Cette étude a décrit les défis vécus par les partenaires de vétéran(e)s avec des troubles de santé mentale. Les interventions pour cette population doivent prendre en considération leur besoin individuel, se concentrer sur les techniques pratiques et tenir compte des limites pratiques.