bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deaf signing diversity and signed language translations
Authors: Hodge Gabrielle , Goswell Della
Published: October 2021

This article explores what deaf signing diversity means for the creation of effective online signed language translations in Australia and for language theory more generally. We draw on the translanguaging and enregisterment literature to describe the communication practices and individual repertoires of deaf Auslan signers, and to problematise the creation of translations from English into Auslan. We also revisit findings from focus group research with deaf audiences and translation practitioners to identify key elements of existing translations that were problematic for many deaf viewers, and to illuminate what makes an act of translation from English into Auslan effective for signers who need these translations the most. One main challenge is the inherent hybridity of signed communication practices, resulting from variable language learning circumstances and other factors. Instead, signed communication practices are often shaped by what we refer to as the nascency principle: the perpetual redevelopment of new forms of expression for understanding the specific discourse and spatiotemporal context, by and for the signers who are physically present. This affects possibilities for enregisterment and therefore translations. We conclude with suggestions for improving translations and some broader implications for understanding and researching signed languages.
Evaluation of circulating Dickkopf-1 as a prognostic biomarker in ovarian cancer patients
Authors: Klotz Daniel Martin , Link Theresa , Goeckenjan Maren , Wimberger Pauline , Poetsch Anna R. , Jaschke Nikolai , Hofbauer Lorenz C. , Göbel Andy , Rachner Tilman D. , Kuhlmann Jan Dominik
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) is a secreted protein, known for suppressing the differentiation and activity of bone-building osteoblasts by acting as an inhibitor of Wnt-signalling. Soluble DKK1 (sDKK1) has been proposed as prognostic biomarker for a wide range of malignancies, however, clinical relevance of sDKK1 as potential blood-based marker for ovarian cancer is unknown.

Methods

sDKK1 levels were quantified in a cohort of 150 clinically documented ovarian cancer patients by a commercially available DKK1 ELISA (Biomedica, Vienna, Austria).

Results

Median sDKK1 level was significantly elevated at primary diagnosis of ovarian cancer compared to healthy controls (estimated difference (ED) of 7.75 ng/mL (95% CI: 3.01–12.30 ng/mL, p=0.001)). Higher levels of sDKK1 at diagnosis indicated an increased volume of intraoperative malignant ascites (ED 7.08 pmol/L, 95% CI: 1.46–13.05, p=0.02) and predicted suboptimal debulking surgery (ED 6.88 pmol/L, 95% CI: 1.73–11.87, p=0.01). sDKK1 did not correlate with CA125 and higher sDKK1 levels predicted a higher risk of recurrence and poor survival (PFS: HR=0.507, 95% CI: 0.317–0.809; p=0.004; OS: HR=0.561, 95% CI: 0.320–0.986; p=0.044). Prognostic relevance of sDKK1 was partly sustained in wtBRCA patients (PFS: HR=0.507, 95% CI: 0.317–0.809; p=0.004).

Conclusions

This is the first study demonstrating the prognostic relevance of sDKK1 in ovarian cancer patients, including those with wtBRCA
1/2 status. Our data encourage further evaluation of sDKK1 in ovarian cancer patients, possibly in terms of a therapy monitoring marker or a response predictor for sDKK1-directed targeted therapies.
Articulatory features of phonemes pattern to iconic meanings: evidence from cross-linguistic ideophones
Authors: Thompson Arthur Lewis , Van Hoey Thomas , Do Youngah
Published: October 2021

Iconic words are supposed to exhibit imitative relationships between their linguistic forms and their referents. Many studies have worked to pinpoint sound-to-meaning correspondences for ideophones from different languages. The correspondence patterns show similarities across languages, but what makes such language-specific correspondences universal, as iconicity claims to be, remains unclear. This could be due to a lack of consensus on how to describe and test the perceptuo-motor affordances that make an iconic word feel imitative to speakers. We created and analysed a database of 1,860 ideophones across 13 languages, and found that seven articulatory features, physiologically accessible to all spoken language users, pattern according to semantic features of ideophones. Our findings pave the way for future research to utilize articulatory properties as a means to test and explain how iconicity is encoded in spoken language. The perspective taken here fits in with ongoing research of embodiment, motivation, and iconicity research, three major strands of research within Cognitive Linguistics. The results support that there is a degree of unity between the concepts of imitative communication and the spoken forms through cross-domain mappings, which involve physical articulatory movement.
Towards an extended/higher correspondence
Authors: Alfonsi Luigi
Published: October 2021

In this short paper, we will review the proposal of a correspondence between the doubled geometry of Double Field Theory and the higher geometry of bundle gerbes. Double Field Theory is T-duality covariant formulation of the supergravity limit of String Theory, which generalises Kaluza-Klein theory by unifying metric and Kalb-Ramond field on a doubled-dimensional space. In light of the proposed correspondence, this doubled geometry is interpreted as an atlas description of the higher geometry of bundle gerbes. In this sense, Double Field Theory can be interpreted as a field theory living on the total space of the bundle gerbe, just like Kaluza-Klein theory is set on the total space of a principal bundle. This correspondence provides a higher geometric interpretation for para-Hermitian geometry which opens the door to its generalisation to Exceptional Field Theory.

This review is based on, but not limited to, my talk at the workshop Generalized Geometry and Applications at Universität Hamburg on 3rd of March 2020.
Almost complex manifolds with small Nijenhuis tensor
Authors: Fernandez Luis , Shin Tobias , Wilson Scott O.
Published: October 2021

We give several explicit examples of compact manifolds with a 1-parameter family of almost complex structures having arbitrarily small Nijenhuis tensor in the C
0-norm. The 4-dimensional examples possess no complex structure, whereas the 6-dimensional example does not possess a left invariant complex structure, and whether it possesses a complex structure appears to be unknown.
Ultra wideband bandpass filters with specified relative bandwidth
Authors: Nesic Dusan , Milosevic Tomislav , Kolundzija Branko
Published: October 2021

Algorithm for the realization of the broad range of values of wide relative bandwidth (RBW) bandpass filter is introduced. Algorithm is based on periodic ideal cells each with short-ended stub. Theory is developed for a symmetrical cell with proportional transmission lines, nonuniform or uniform, in term of characteristic impedance. The theory is applied for the uniform transmission lines. Simple equation of the ratio between characteristic impendence of the short-ended stub and the characteristic impendences of the main lines is given for the broad range of RBW. Realizable filters are for the very wide RBW up to over 1.5 (150%). Technology is chosen in microstrip with vias for the short ends. It is without coupling, without defected ground structure (DGS) and only with a single layer. The procedure is tested on the fabricated filters for very wide RBW of 1.5 (150%). Agreement between measurements and simulations is excellent.
Agro-ecological services delivered by legume cover crops grown in succession with grain corn crops in the Mediterranean region
Authors: Boulet Anne Karine , Alarcão Carlos , Ferreira Carla , Kalantari Zahra , Veiga Adelcia , Campos Lara , Ferreira António , Hessel Rudi
Published: October 2021

Grain corn is the main cereal produced in Portugal. It is grown in intensive monoculture cropping systems that may have negative effects on soil quality, affecting long-term fertility and productivity, and, therefore, the sustainability of the production. A promising management practice to mitigate soil degradation is to grow winter cover crops used as green manure. This study examined the effectiveness of six legume cover crops (LCCs) species in providing agro-ecological services for grain corn systems in the Mediterranean region, specifically in terms of nutrient leaching, nutrient recycling, weed control, and soil fertility. The study was performed in Central Portugal during 2 years, and it assessed legumes/weeds dry biomass yield, their nutrients content, and soil organic matter evolution. Results show that, in general, LCC are well adapted to Mediterranean conditions, yielding large amounts of biomass (up to 8 ton/ha for some clover species). In terms of nutrient leaching mitigation, the overall N–P–K nutrient uptake was 176–20–172 kg/ha. Green manure services enabled a reduction of 35% of N, 50% of P, and 100% of mineral fertilizers for a grain corn production of 12 ton/ha. Weed control by LCC was effective only in the second year of the study and for three clover species (crimson, balansa, and arrowleaf) due to their early establishment and/or high biomass production competing with weeds. Soil fertility was not improved in the short term, LCC incorporation into the soil to a slight depletion of the soil organic matter content.
How Much are Iranian Men Willing to Pay for Exemption from Military Service?
Authors: Fatemi Mohammad Hossein , Mehrara Mohsen , Taiebnia Ali
Published: October 2021

Compulsory military service, due to its timing in the lives of men (at a young age, which is the key period for increasing human capital) and its length (in many cases, about a year and a half to two years), implies a significant cost (explicit or implicit) for them. Individual costs incurred as a result of compulsory military service is an important aspect to consider when measuring the economic and social costs of enforcing conscription. Compulsory military service has been a part of Iranian government policy since 1925. Accordingly, an attempt to estimate the cost for men in Iran is the main subject of this paper. We will estimate the willingness of men to pay for exemption from compulsory military service based on the dichotomous choice contingent valuation model (One-and-One-Half Bounded approach). The mean of willingness to pay is estimated at 1.61 billion Rials (38,000 USD) while the median of willingness to pay is 1.64 billion Rials. A calculation of the median of willingness to pay for sub-groups of respondents shows that individuals with an income of more than 70 million Rials (1670 USD) per month have the highest median of willingness to pay, followed by those with a Ph.D. degree, and finally, undergraduates are individuals with the lowest median of willingness to pay.
Patterns of pain complaints and insomnia symptoms are associated with abusive supervision in the Norwegian working population: a latent class analysis
Authors: Sannes Ann-Christin , Christensen Jan Olav , Matre Dagfinn , Nielsen Morten Birkeland , Gjerstad Johannes
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Previous findings suggest that abusive supervision, i.e., subordinates’ perceptions of their supervisor’s behaviours as hostile (excluding physical aggression), may increase the risk of health complaints. In addition, recent data suggest that the FKBP5 genotype rs9470080 important in the regulation of cortisol release, influences the same outcome. Adding to this complexity, different health complaints often co-occur. The present study aimed to (1) uncover patterns of pain complaints and insomnia symptoms by using latent class analysis, (2) determine whether abusive supervision or FKBP5 rs9470080 was associated with these patterns, and (3) examine the interaction between abusive supervision and FKBP5 genotype regarding pain and insomnia symptoms.

Methods

The data was collected through a national probability survey of 5,000 employees drawn from the National Central Employee Register by Statistics Norway. Abusive supervision was measured by a 5-item version of the Tepper’s 2000 scale. Pain and insomnia symptoms were measured by 5 items reflecting pain and 3 items reflecting insomnia. The FKBP5 rs9470080 genotyping was carried out using TaqMan assay.

Results

A total of 1,226 participants returned the questionnaire and the saliva kit sample. Based on these the latent class analyses revealed four classes based on response patterns of pain and insomnia symptoms. In the regression analysis, abusive supervision was a significant predictor for the response patterns. However, neither the FKBP5 nor the interaction between abusive supervision and FKBP5 showed significant contributions.

Conclusions

In conclusion, awareness of the association between abusive supervision and the revealed four pain- and insomnia subgroups, and what separates them, may be important for prognosis and an optimal follow-up for those affected.
Fears and Hopes of the Europeans in the context of Pandemic
Authors: Lunkin Roman
Published: October 2021

The monograph is devoted to the study of political solidarity and religious identity in the European space in the context of social and epidemiological challenges currently faced by Europe. The book analyzed the features of civil solidarity and public attitudes during the coronavirus pandemic in the member-state of Europe. The religious factor is touched on by the example of Orthodoxy and certain countries of the post-Soviet space, where social and political transformations are taking place (Russia, Montenegro, Moldova, Ukraine, Belarus). The participation of religious associations in political life is considered through the prism of the theory of post- secularization, that means growing importance of religion in civil society as a symbol of identity and a source of social solidarity.
Pattern Recognition Receptors in Innate Immunity to Obligate Intracellular Bacteria
Authors: Fisher James R. , Chroust Zachary D. , Onyoni Florence , Soong Lynn
Published: October 2021

Host pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) are crucial for sensing pathogenic microorganisms, initiating innate responses, and modulating pathogen-specific adaptive immunity during infection.Rickettsia spp.,Orientia tsutsugamushi,Anaplasma spp.,Ehrlichia spp., andCoxiella burnetiiare obligate intracellular bacteria that can replicate only within host cells and must evade immune detection to successfully propagate. These five bacterial species are zoonotic pathogens of clinical or agricultural importance, yet uncovering how immune recognition occurs has remained challenging. Recent evidence from in vitro studies and animal models has yielded new insights into the types and kinetics of PRR activation during infection withRickettsia spp.,A. phagocytophilum,E. chaffeensis, andC. burnetii. However, much less was known about PRR activation inO. tsutsugamushiinfection until the recent discovery of the role of the C-type lectin receptor Mincle during lethal infection in mice and in primary macrophage cultures. This review provides a brief summary of the clinical and epidemiologic features of these five bacterial infections, with a focus on the fundamental biologic facets of infection, and recent advances in host recognition. In addition, knowledge gaps regarding the innate recognition of these bacteria in the context of disease pathogenesis are discussed.
Differences in the use of electronic and printed versions of a university mathematics workbook
Authors: Vocetková Klára , Šulista Marek
Published: October 2021

The recent months have shifted contact teaching to the online environment and distance learning and students are dealing more and more with digital materials in various e-learning systems. The question is whether the online electronic materials are as effective as their printed versions for the students using them for self-study purposes. This paper presents research focusing on university students' work with an electronic and printed version of a mathematics workbook. The main research focuses on differences regarding error rate, the number of used hints, and the time they need to spend to solve 111 mathematical problems covering four topics of their introductory course of Mathematics such as limits, graphs, differentiation, and applications of derivatives. One hundred fifty-seven university students participated in the research working with sets of mathematical problems with multi-choice answers taken from the Khan Academy, including step-by-step hints. At the same time, the students were recording their errors, time, and the number of used hints using a questionnaire. The electronic sets were transformed into an electronic workbook and afterward into a printed version of this workbook. Obtained data were analysed using the Random Mixed Model as it enables to mix the used mathematical problems with different variance. The most exciting finding of this research was that the students working with the electronic version of the workbook work significantly faster but at the expense of errors. Students working with the interactive version of the workbook used significantly fewer hints.
Analysis of consumer behavior zero waste consumers
Authors: Kraslanová Michaela , Vargová Mária , Poláková Zuzana
Published: October 2021

The article analyzes the consumer behavior of zero waste consumers based on a questionnaire survey, which was attended by 205 respondents of the Slovak Republic. The chi-square test of independence was used for these data, where strength of relationship between qualitative variables was examined, specifically between the place of purchase and the frequency of purchase, the place of purchase and the percentage of cash income spent on the food purchases. In both cases, a dependence was found between the given traits. Subsequently, the differences in the behavior of men and women were examined, while the price and psychological factor was analyzed, namely the discount factor and the environmental impact factor. In the first case, based on calculations in the SAS system using the Mann Whitney U test, we can state the difference in behavior between the sexes, with women being more influenced by the price factor and on the other hand with psychological factor, men being more influenced by the environmental impact than women.
Development and characterization of green banana-based fondant icing
Authors: Silva Itala Suzana Oliveira , Viana Eliseth de Souza , Soares Sérgio Eduardo , Chaves Rosana Silva , Reis Ronielli Cardoso
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT The insertion of functional foods in the confectionery industry is a growing reality, aiming to meet a growing demand for products that are visually attractive and at the same time healthy. The present study aimed to develop and characterize the physical, physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory properties of fondant icings based on green banana biomass and flour. Two formulations were developed (NFBI - Neutral Flavor Biomass-based Icing, and CFBI - Chocolate Flavor Biomass-based Icing), which were compared with the commercial fondant icings (NFCI - Neutral Flavor Commercial Icing, and CFCI - Chocolate Flavor Commercial Icing). The fondant icings were evaluated for centesimal composition, caloric value, physical, physicochemical (resistant starch, titratable acidity, water activity, texture, and color), and microbiological characteristics, as well as sensory acceptance. The icings based on green banana biomass and flour showed higher levels of ash, fiber, resistant starch, and protein, as well as lower total caloric value, and thus, were healthier. These icings were also softer and had more intense color compared to commercial ones, as well as good sensory acceptance, especially the one with chocolate flavor, which had greater than 72% approval. Microbiological analyses indicated that the icings could be stored under refrigeration (<4 ºC) for 30 days. Given the nutritional quality and health benefits, the icings prepared with green banana biomass and flour proved to be promising and could serve a niche market represented by people who seek a healthier diet or need to control their sugar consumption, such as diabetics.
Flora of Ceará, Brasil: Passifloraceae s.s
Authors: Souza Francisca Graciele Leite Sampaio de , Cordeiro Luciana Silva , Sampaio Valéria da Silva , Silva Maria Arlene Pessoa da , Loiola Maria Iracema Bezerra
Published: October 2021

Abstract This study presents the floristic-taxonomic treatment of Passifloraceae s.s. from the state of Ceará. Identifications were based on the analysis of collections deposited in national herbaria and photos of international herbarium collections, including types specimens, specialized bibliography and samples collected in the field. The family is represented in Ceará by 18 taxa of Passiflora, of which three are new records for the state: P. capsularis, P. kermesina and P. morifolia. Ten species were registered in Conservation Units in Ceará. The species occur in various types of vegetaion, but prefer more humid environments. Identification key, comments, images and distribution maps of the species are provided.
Morphometry of the fruits of Genipa americana (Rubiaceae): a case study from the southern coast of Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Santos Catriane Sousa , Dalmolin Ândrea Carla , Santos Martielly Santana dos , Santos Roberta Barreto dos , Lima Thâmara Moura , Pérez-Molina Junior Pastor , Mielke Marcelo Schramm
Published: October 2021

Abstract We conducted a study to assess the morphometric attributes of Genipa americana fruit, and their relationship with variations in elevation and distances between sampling sites on the southern coast of Bahia, Brazil. Eight fruit were used per sampling site (ten sites; n = 80). Mantel’s test revealed that the spatial distance between sample sites, and elevation of all sampling sites were significantly correlated with the similarities found in fruit diameter (DF), fruit length (FL), and fresh fruit mass (FFM), but the spatial distance between sites, independently of the elevation, was only correlated with the number of seeds per fruit (NSF) and total fresh mass of seeds per fruit (FMSF). The morphometric attributes of fruits, and their associated relationships with elevation and distance between sampling sites are demonstrated.
Bank Lending Conditions during the Pandemic
Authors: Bodovski David , Firestone Hannah , Lee Seung Jung , Stebunovs Viktors
Published: October 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a large shock to economies and financial systems around the world. In the beginning, as governments introduced unprecedented measures to contain the quickly spreading virus and households hunkered down to socially distance from one another, output plummeted, unemployment skyrocketed, and significant financial stress materialized.
RECTIFICATION AND CONCURSUS CREDITORUM Nedbank Limited v Chance 2008 4 SA 209 (D); 2008 2 All SA 367 (D)
Authors: Lienne Steyn
Published: October 2021

In Nedbank Limited v Chance (2008 4 SA 209 (D); 2008 2 All SA 367 (D)), the court refused a claim for rectification of a contract, although it was common cause that it did not reflect the actual agreement between the parties, because the debtor had been declared insolvent and a concursus creditorum had been established. The result was that the insolvent debtor’s sureties, its erstwhile directors, managed to evade liability to the creditor for an amount in excess of R2.8 million. Given that the principles concerning a concursus creditorum, as well as those regarding rectification, have equity as their purpose, this highly prejudicial outcome for the creditor is most unsatisfactory and the decision merits closer scrutiny.
IS THERE A NEED FOR MANDATORY OFFERS IN COMPANY TAKEOVER? A CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Authors: Paul Nkoane
Published: October 2021

The aim of mandatory offers law is to offer protection to minorities where the takeover of a regulated company is imminent. Correspondingly, the Companies Act has been enacted to promote economic activity by encouraging investments. Thus, all rules within the ambit of the Companies Act must conform with the purpose of this legislation. Although the rules of mandatory offers serve a noble purpose, they appear to contrast with the purpose of the Act. The main pitfall appears to be the rules that trigger mandatory offers. This arguably may be an impediment to investments. The triggering percentage is not necessarily the main pitfall, but lack of distinct leeway is. This article investigates the impact of mandatory offers in relation to commerce, in order to reach an informed opinion about whether there is a variety of ways to regulate takeovers. This investigation will then determine whether the legislator could adopt a different system or provide precise rules that would exempt those who have acquired securities in the range of prescribed percentage without posing a danger to minorities.
DEVELOPING THE CRIME OF PUBLIC VIOLENCE AS A REMEDY TO THE VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF NON-PROTESTERS DURING VIOLENT PROTESTS AND STRIKES – A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN JURISPRUDENCE
Authors: Khulekani Khumalo
Published: October 2021

While section 17 of the Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of assembly, the violence that accompanies the exercise of this right often culminates in the violation of the rights of non-protesters to, inter alia, life, dignity, equality and freedom and security of the person. The crime of public violence is the primary measure in place for the maintenance of the community’s interest in public peace and order, as well as for affording protection against the invasion of the rights of other people during protests and strikes. Therefore, the apparent failure of the crime to adequately safeguard the rights of non-protesters begs the question whether the crime falls short of the objectives of section 39(2) of the Constitution and thus requires to be developed in order to promote the spirit, purport and objects of the Bill of Rights. If so, how must the development take place in order to meet these objectives? Addressing the foregoing questions invariably leads to an assessment of thejurisprudential direction the South African courts are likely to take in the question of developing the crime of public violence as a remedy to the erosion of various rights of non-protesters during violent protests and strikes.
THE REGULATION OF EXECUTIVE REMUNERATION IN SOUTH AFRICA
Authors: Vela Madlela  , Palollo Michael Lehloenya
Published: October 2021

Executive remuneration is one of the essential aspects of corporate governance that has attracted increasing attention in corporate circles and beyond in recent years. This comes in the wake of the global financial crisis of 2008 and the executive remuneration packages that are spiraling out of control. The increasingly excessive payments companies and financial institutions make to their management teams have given rise to growing consensus that executive remuneration needs to becontrolled and regulated. Included among the identified causes of the problem are inter alia lack of transparency and accountability in determining executive remuneration, conflict of interests among those who determine executive remuneration, misalignment of management and shareholder interests, as well as inadequate protection of shareholder governance rights. The primary object of this paper is to examine the adequacy of the current regulatory framework in South Africa in addressing the challenges relating to executive remuneration. It further takes cognisance of the need for companies to achieve an appropriate balance between adequate regulation and the necessary flexibility in responding to the needs of different companies. The paper also makes proposals for reforming the current regulatory framework in a way that promotes fairness, transparency and accountability in executive remuneration.
Morin's Complex Thinking and Besse's Landscape as strategies for a new vision on the planning of green areas and multifunctional urban ecological corridors
Authors: Graviola Gabriela Rosa , Pena João Carlos , Ribeiro Milton Cezar , Constantino Norma Regina Truppel
Published: October 2021

The Cartesian world view established a model of development for western cities that led to a number of environmental, social, and economic consequences. In order to overcome these challenges, a reform in current thinking is necessary. Thus, this article aims to intertwine the concepts of complexity of Edgard Morin and the concepts of landscape proposed by Jean Marc-Besse in order to better understand how the interaction of these two authors can help guide city planning with a focus on sustainability. As a case study, we used the municipality of Rio Claro-SP. The method used was a comparative study of the main works by the authors, as well as an analysis of the process of planning ecological corridors in the chosen municipality, following the steps proposed by Besse. As a result, it was observed that the interaction between landscape and complex thinking is fundamental for creating a far-reaching knowledge network. In the search for sustainability, the dialogic method can be an important tool for creating strategies to solve contemporary challenges of urban planning.
Proyectos de intervención en la ciudad contemporánea
Authors: Benini Sandra Medina
Published: October 2021

Este texto resalta la importancia de la infraestructura verde, así como la practica sustentable para subvencionar la elaboración de los Planes de Drenaje Urbano. Para esto, fue propuesto una nueva mirada al verde urbano, mediante subvenciones teóricas y prácticas, en los que fue demostrado la posibilidad de optimización de estos espacios, mediante a procesos ecológicos conjugados (sistema verde y azul), que se materializan mediante diferentes tipologías de verde. La infraestructura. Como procedimiento metodologico, fue adoptado una pesquisa cualitativa mediante la infraestructura verde, teniendo en cuenta el espacio del condado de Tupã/SP. Así en la realización del estudio del caso propuesto, la pesquisa checo la importancia de la incorporación de infraestructura verde en el proceso de planificación y gestión urbana, utilizando el condado de Tupã. Los inúmeros beneficios ambientales que contribuyen de forma significativa, no solo para la mitigación de los diversos efectos surgiendo del proceso de urbanización, pero como principal estrategia para garantir la cualidad ambiental de los espacios urbanos.
SURGICAL SPERM RETRIEVAL IN AZOOSPERMIA: OUTCOME AND PREDICTIVE FACTORS
Authors: Ahmed Shyaw , Arkawazi Lusan , Mahmood Kawa , Aghaways Ismaeel
Published: October 2021

Background 

Before conducting any invasive surgical sperm retrieval in men with azoospermia, it is worth looking at certain factors to predict the chance of finding viable sperm eligible for Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection.

Objectives 

Evaluating the outcome of percutaneous testicular sperm aspiration in men with azoospermia and the predictive value of serum Follicular Stimulating Hormone (FSH), testicular volume, and testicular strain elastography on the sperm retrieval rate

Methods

Cross-sectional prospective study on 73 men with azoospermia who have had their testicular volume and serum FSH measured before conducting percutaneous sperm aspiration. Fifteen men were also recruited to undergo testicular elastography. Age, FSH, testicular volume, and strain ratio on elastography were correlated with the outcome of sperm retrieval. 

Results

Mean age was 36 years (range 19-69), 48% of them have had positive sperm retrieval. Twenty-five cycles of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection were performed, 8 (32%) have had positive β-hCG test and 4 (16%) live-birth rates. Serum FSH was the only predictive factor of percutaneous sperm retrieval (p=0.013) on multivariate analysis. The strain ratio was shown to be significantly different between men with negative and positive sperm aspirations (p=0.02). 

Conclusion

Percutaneous testicular sperm aspiration has a satisfactory retrieval rate in men with azoospermia. A combination of serum FSH and testicular strain elastography seems a promising tool that can potentially be used as guidance for predicting the outcome of surgical sperm retrieval.
THE RISK OF LOW VITAMIN D IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF PREECLAMPSIA
Authors: Sleman Shanga , Alsakkal Ghada , Khalaf Shayan
Published: October 2021

Background 

Preeclampsia is new-onset hypertension and proteinuria after 20 gestational weeks. A low vitamin D level is thought to associate with a higher risk of preeclampsia.

Objectives 

We aimed to find the association of serum vitamin D levels with preeclampsia in our population, in which vitamin D deficiency is common. 

Patients and Methods

A prospective cohort study was performed on 80 pregnant women who were admitted to Sulaimani Maternity Teaching Hospital, Sulaimani, Kurdistan, Iraq. The women were collected from October 1, 2019, to March 13, 2020. The women were randomly selected and enrolled into three groups according to their clinical features of preeclampsia; no features of preeclampsia, a mild degree of preeclampsia, and severe form of preeclampsia. The inclusion criterion was pregnant women, and exclusion criteria were women with a history of hypertension, history of proteinuria before pregnancy, and refusal to participate. Demographic features and detailed clinical examination were recorded. Also, the serum vitamin D (ng/dL) was measured by Cobas ® 6000 analyzer machine (F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd).

Results

The mean ± SD (standard deviation) of participants’ age was 31.33 ± 6.05 years, and there were no significant differences in demographic features among the three groups. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures among the three groups were significantly different. There was no significant association between pregnant women and serum vitamin D levels. However, all of the preeclamptic women had either deficient or insufficient serum vitamin D levels.

Conclusion

There was no significant association between serum vitamin D levels in pregnant women and the occurrence of preeclampsia.
RELATION OF THYROID FUNCTIONS WITH PULSE RATE, BLOOD PRESSURE, AND PULSE PRESSURE IN MILD SCH AND EUTHYROID SUBJECTS
Authors: Abdulateef Darya , Mahwi Taha , Omer Sherwan , Abdullah Shadan
Published: October 2021

Background 
Overt hypothyroidism affects the cardiovascular system and blood pressure regulation. There is controversy on the relation of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) with the cardiovascular system, and this relation is not assessed yet in mild SCH (SCH with TSH < 10 mIU/L).
Objectives 
To find differences in systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), pulse pressure, and pulse rate between mild SCH and Euthyroidism, furthermore to evaluate the relationship of these cardiovascular characteristics.
Methods
This prospective case-control study involved 186 participants; 43 mild SCH and 142 Euthyroid. The studied subjects were further subdivided into two groups according to age. Pulse rate and blood pressure (SDP and DBP) were measured, and mean and pulse pressure were calculated. The following biochemical parameters were measured; fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and thyroid function test (TFT; TSH, FT4, FT3, and anti-TPO antibody). The parameters were compared between SCH and Euthyroid groups using Student T-test and the correlation between variables was assessed using Pearson’s correlation, with a P-value ≤ of 0.05 is regarded as significant.
Results
The mean TSH level in the mild SCH group is 5.47 (0.89) mIU/L. Mild SCH has higher DBP compared to Euthyroid subjects (81.93 vs 77.64 mmHg), and in the age group of <35 years, each of the DBP, SBP, and mean pressure were higher in SCH compared to control individual, in this group, there is a significant inverse correlation between FT4 and DBP. And in subjects with >35 years significant inverse correlation exists between FT4 and mean pressure, P < 0.05. No significant association is present between TSH level and pulse rate, blood pressure, and pulse pressure. 
Conclusion
Data of the present study revealed that even mild SCH, is associated with higher DBP compared to Euthyroid subjects and the FT4 level in the SCH has a negative correlation with DBP, while there was no significant correlation between pulse pressure, pulse rate with thyroid function test in subject with mild SCH. Follow-up of mild SCH subjects is recommended for blood pressure assessment.
BISHOP SCORE AND RISK OF HAVING CESAREAN DELIVERY AFTER INDUCTION OF LABOR IN NULLIPAROUS WOMEN
Authors: Ahmed Shokhan , Nasir Sallama
Published: October 2021

Background 

Induction of labor (IOL) refers to the stimulation or artificially initiating uterine contractions before its spontaneous onset, to effect progressive effacement and dilatation of the cervix and, ultimately, delivery of a baby. The Bishop’s Score also known as the cervical score is a pre-labor scoring system to assist in predicting the success of labor induction.

Objectives 

To assess the outcome of induction of labor (whether vaginal delivery or Cesarean Section) concerning Bishop Score. 

Patients and Methods

This is a prospective cohort study, conducted at Sulaimani maternity teaching hospital for 10months startingfrom 1st April 2019 till 30th of January 2020. The study included 152 pregnant nulliparous women with singleton viable fetus, cephalic presentation, and intact membranes with no medical disease who were admitted to hospital for induction of labor because of postdate pregnancy (gestational age> 40 weeks). The studied women were divided into two groups according to their Bishop Score on admission. Group (1) are women with Bishop Score < 6 who underwent Labour induction with 25 microgram misoprostol followed by oxytocin drip. Group (2) are womenwhose Bishop Score ≥ 6 underwent induction of labor by oxytocin drip. Women in both groups were followed up throughout induction till delivery and the outcome of labor was compared between the two groups.

Results

There was statistically significant association between the bishop score at time of induction and mode of delivery since (40.4%) of women in group (1) delivered by C/S and (59.6%) delivered vaginally, while the majority (80.9%) of women in group (2) had successful induction of labor and delivered vaginally and only 19.1% delivered by C/S, (P value = 0.005). The main cause of C/S in group(1)was failure of progress in first stage of labor (38.8%), followed by meconium stained liquor (27.7%) and fetal distress (25.2%). While for group (2), the main cause of C/S was meconium stained liquor (50.0%), followed by fetal distress (33.4%) .The difference was statistically highly significant (p-value =0.01) also the duration of labor was significantly related to bishop score, women with bishop score < 6 has longer duration of labor compared to women with bishop score ≥ 6 in spite of using misoprostol as a ripening agent (p- value=0.05).

Conclusion

Assessment of bishop score at the time of induction of labor can predict the outcome of induction. Nulliparous woman with a low bishop score (<6) at the time of IOL is at risk of failure of induction and delivery by C/S despite using cervical ripening agents.
HEPATITIS B VACCINATION AMONG DENTAL HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN ERBIL CITY
Authors: Lak Rebaz
Published: October 2021

Background 

Approximately 350–400 million people have been diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) worldwide. It is assumed that dentists and dental staff can be infected and, simultaneously, transmit the virus to their patients more easily comparing to other professions

Objectives 

This study aimed to identify the status of hepatitis B vaccination among health personnel working in the dentistry field and define their risky behaviors in daily practice

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, a self-administered questionnaire was filled by the respondents between November 2019 and January 2020. To ensure the representativeness of the sample and generalization of the results, a cluster sampling method was performed to select the study sample, and three out of the five dental polyclinic centers were selected.

Results

Two-thirds (66.4%) of the subjects received the three full doses or more of the vaccine while one-third (33.6%) of them either did not receive the vaccine at all or have received incomplete doses of the recommended schedule. The majority of the respondents (85.8%) reported some sort of mucocutaneous injuries, including needle sticks or syringes and sharp cuts. There was a statistically significant association between vaccination status and dental centers, departments, occupation of the dental healthcare workers and p values were less than 0.005.  

Conclusion

Suboptimal vaccination coverage combined with a high proportion of exposure to injuries and discrepancies in vaccination rates among different dental centers, departments and specialties mandate the health authority to improve vaccination coverage and target unvaccinated and at-risk personnel.
Digital survey of mental health, associated psychosocial, and work factors in medical specialty residents in the Guadalajara metropolitan area
Authors: Aldana López Jesús Alejandro , Foulkes González Eric , Ojeda Palomera José Fernando , Carmona Huerta Jaime , Acosta Fernández Martín
Published: October 2021

Introduction. Medical specialty residents have become a high-risk population for mental health disorders, mainly due to long working days, limited time for rest and recreation, problems inherent in the work environment, and substance use. Since all these factors not only alter the training of future specialists, but also the care they provide for people, the study of an intervention in this population is of interest to the health system and human resource training in the health sector. Objective. To evaluate the mental health status, prevalence of work exhaustion and associated psychosocial and work factors in medical residents in the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area. Method. This was a cross-sectional, observational, descriptive, and comparative study, in which, through a digitized survey on the Google Forms platform, the GHQ-28, ASSIST, and Maslach Burnout Inventory scales were administered to medical specialty residents from various health institutions in the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area. Results. The total sample comprised 306 residents, representing 11.23% of the total residents in the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area (2,724). Female physicians had a higher percentage of participation with 61.4% (n = 188), with male physicians accounting for 38.6% (n = 118). The average age was 28.9 years and 84.9% (n = 260) were pursuing a clinical specialty, and 15.1% (n = 46) a surgical one p ˂ 05. On average, they worked 74.1 hours per week, whereas in surgical specialties they worked another 10 hours (82.63 ± 23.40 vs. 72.67 ± 19.76, p = .002). 72.5% (n = 222) showed a high risk of developing burnout. 9.2% (n = 28) obtained scores compatible with severe depression, which was related to a higher number of hours worked per week and heavier alcohol consumption than residents without depression, 21.24% (n = 65) of respondents frequently thought about dropping out, 22.5% (n = 69) felt dissatisfied with their work, while 14.05% (n = 43) of the residents had recently noticed that they had had frequent thoughts of taking their own lives. Discussion and conclusion. The higher number of hours worked per week, surgical specialties, and the presence of workplace harassment were recognized as psychosocial and occupational factors associated with mental health problems in resident physicians, such as depression, thoughts of death, burnout, and psychoactive substance use. In a country like Mexico, where medical residents are a crucial pillar of the public health system, it is necessary to ensure their well-being, and seek to improve the working and academic conditions of medical residencies to ensure that this is reflected in the quality and safety of patient care.
Psychosocial factors and mental health in Mexican healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Juárez-García Arturo , Camacho-Ávila Anabel , García-Rivas Javier , Gutiérrez-Ramos Oniria
Published: October 2021

Introduction. The World Health Organization has estimated a significant increase in mental disorders due to the COVID-19 pandemic and has identified healthcare workers as a vulnerable group. In Mexico, the impact of this pandemic on the mental health of healthcare workers and the psychosocial factors associated with it remain unknown. Objective. To identify levels of stress, burnout, anxiety, and depression and their relationship with negative psychosocial stressors and positive psychosocial resources in healthcare workers in Mexico during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method. As a part of a larger project in certain Latin American countries, 269 health workers from various Mexican clinics and hospital centers initially participated in a non-experimental, cross-sectional correlational design. Participants were recruited by targeted sampling. Various ultra-brief measures were used to measure symptoms of depression, anxiety, burnout, and stress and a mixed-methods exploration technique was used to identify associated psychosocial factors, which were also explored with cluster analysis. Results. We found high levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms (56.9% and 74.7%), as well as burnout and stress (49.8% and 46.8%). Although the stressors “infection of self” and “family infection” (38.3% and 30.9%) and the resources “family” and “personal protective equipment” (34.6% and 24.5%) were the most frequent, there were more than 20 factors in each category differentially associated with mental health. Cluster analysis made it possible to identify representative sets of psychosocial variables. Discussion and conclusion. The increased risk in mental health for health care workers is confirmed in a preliminary way and the stressors and resources to be considered in preventive strategies to address COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico are identified.
Stress in university research professors: A systematic review
Authors: Palafox Carvajal Rubén Francisco , Domínguez Guedea Miriam Teresa
Published: October 2021

Background. Research is crucial to the development of society. The literature on the challenges for scientific development highlights that chronic stress in researchers can affect their academic production and their physical and mental health. Although some literature reports the consequences of stress in the academic field, most studies are carried out on students, and there is very little knowledge on the characteristics of stress because of simultaneous academic, occupational, and socio-personal demands. Objective. To analyze and contrast the methodological components and main results of stress-related studies on researchers. Method. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guide was used to analyze current evidence in the literature. Full-text scientific papers from the period 2008-2019 were included in both English and Spanish, on subjects engaged in research and teaching. The databases used were Scopus, Ebsco, Dialnet, and Web of Science. Results. One hundred and eighty records were obtained, but only four met the criteria for the qualitative evaluation. Discussion and conclusion. Stress is present in the 20% of subjects associated with psychological (lack of control, emotional fatigue, overload, multi-tasking) and institutional variables (evaluation system demands, tenure track, lack of scientific recognition). The studies emphasize aspects that predispose and precipitate stress but do not highlight psychological aspects of the stressful experience.