bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Validation of the Peptic Ulcer Scale under the System of Quality of Life Instruments for Chronic Diseases based on Classical Test Theory and Generalizability Theory
Authors: wan chonghua , Chen Ying , Gao Li , Zhang Qingqing , Quan Peng , Sun Xiaoyuan
Published: November 2020

Background: Quality of life (QOL) for patients with Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is of interest worldwide and disease-specific instruments are needed for clinical research and practice. This paper focus on the development and validation of the PUD scale under the system of Quality of Life Instruments for Chronic Diseases (QLICD-PU) by the modular approach and both classical test theory and Generalizability Theory. Methods: The QLICD-PU is developed based on programmatic decision-making procedures, including multiple nominal and focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and quantitative statistical procedures. Based on the data of 153 PUD inpatients, correlation analysis, factor analysis, t-test, and Generalizability Theory analysis (including generalizability study and decision study, ie. G-study and D-study) were used to assess the validity, reliability, and responsiveness of the scale.Results: When the popular scale health survey short form (SF-36) was used as the standard, correlation and factor analysis confirmed good construct validity and criterion-related validity of QLICD-PU. Except for the social domain (0.62), the internal consistency α of all domains is higher than 0.70. The overall score and the test-retest reliability coefficients (Pearson r and intra-class correlation ICC) in all domains are higher than 0.80 (0.77 in the social domain). After treatments, the overall score and scores of all domains have statistically significant changes (P <0.01), except for social impact and sexual function scores. The SRM (Standardized response mean) of domain-level scores ranges from 0.34 to 1.03. The G coefficient and reliability index (Ф coefficient) further confirm the reliability of the scale through more accurate variance components and decision-making information about changes in the number of items.Conclusions: The QLICD-PU can be used as a useful measurement to assess the quality of life of PUD patients with good psychometric characteristics and multiple advantages.
Migratory birds as disseminators of ticks and the tick-borne pathogens Borrelia bacteria and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) virus – a seasonal study at Ottenby Bird Observatory in South-eastern Sweden
Authors: Wilhelmsson Peter , Jaenson Thomas G. T. , Olsen Björn , Waldenström Jonas , Lindgren Per-Eric
Published: November 2020

Background:Birds can act as reservoirs of tick-borne pathogens and can also disperse pathogen-containing ticks to both nearby and remote localities. The aims of this study were to estimate tick infestation patterns on migratory birds and the prevalence of different Borrelia species and tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) in ticks removed from birds in south-eastern Sweden.Methods:Ticks were collected from resident and migratory birds captured at the Ottenby Bird Observatory, Öland, Sweden, from March to November 2009. Ticks were molecularly identified to species, and morphologically to developmental stage, and the presence of Borrelia bacteria and TBEV was determined by quantitative real-time PCR.Results:A total of 1,339 ticks in the genera Haemaphysalis, Hyalomma and Ixodes was recorded of which I. ricinus was the most abundant species. Important tick hosts were the European robin (Erithacus rubecula), Blackbird (Turdus merula), Tree pipit (Anthus trivialis), Eurasian wren (Troglodytes troglodytes), Common redstart (Phoenicurus phoenicurus), Willow warbler (Phylloscopus trochilus), and Common whitethroat (Sylvia communis). Borrelia bacteria were detected in 25 % (285/1,124) of the detached ticks available for analysis. Seven Borrelia species (B. afzelii, B. burgdorferi sensu stricto, B. garinii, B. lusitaniae, B. turdi, B. valaisiana and B. miyamotoi) were identified. B. turdi was recorded for the first time in ticks in Sweden. The number of Borrelia cells per tick ranged from 2.0 × 100 to 7.0 × 105. B. miyamotoi-containing ticks contained a significantly higher median number of Borrelia cells than B. burgdorferi sensu lato-containing ticks. B. garinii and B. miyamotoi were the most prevalent Borrelia species in tick larvae. Larvae of I. ricinus with B. garinii were removed from seven bird species, particularly S. communis and A. trivialis, which may suggest that the larvae had contracted the Borrelia bacteria from or via these birds. Also, a high percentage of tick larvae containing B. miyamotoi was removed from E. rubecula. All ticks were negative for TBEV.Conclusions:The results corroborate the view that the contributions of birds to human disease are substantial, particularly as blood hosts for ticks and for their short-, medium- and long-distance dispersal. Moreover, several ground-foraging bird species appear to be important for the maintenance and dispersal of Borrelia species. The absence of TBEV in the ticks conforms to other similar studies.
CXCR7: A β-arrestin-biased receptor that potentiates cell migration and recruits β-arrestin2 exclusively through Gβγ subunits and GRK2
Authors: Nguyen Huong Thi , Alcaraz Arfaxad Reyes , Yong Hyo Jeong , Nguyen Lan Phuong , Park Hee kyung , Inoue Asuka , Lee Cheol Soon , Seong Jae Young , Hwang Jong-Ik
Published: November 2020

Background: Some chemokine receptors referred to as atypical chemokine receptors (ACKRs) are thought to non-signaling decoys because of their inability to activate typical G-protein signaling pathways. CXCR7, also known as ACKR3, binds to only two chemokines, SDF-1a and I-TAC, and recruits b-arrestins. SDF-1a also binds to its own conventional receptor, CXCR4, involving in homeostatic modulation such as development and immune surveillance as well as pathological condition such as inflammation, ischemia, and cancers. Recently, CXCR7 is suggested as a key therapeutic target together with CXCR4 in such conditions. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying cellular responses and functional relation with CXCR7 and CXCR4 have not been elucidated, despite massive studies. Therefore, we aimed to reveal the molecular networks of CXCR7 and CXCR4 and compare their effects on cell migration.Methods: Base on structural complementation assay using NanoBiT technology, we characterized the distinct mechanisms underlying β-arrestin2 recruitment by both CXCR4 and CXCR7. Crosslinking and immunoprecipitation were conducted to analyze complex formation of the receptors. Gene deletion using CRISPR and reconstitution of the receptors were applied to analysis of ligand dependent ERK phosphorylation and cell migration. All experiments were performed in triplicate and repeated more than three times. Unpaired Student’s t-tests or ANOVA using PRISM5 software were employed for statistical analyses.Results: Ligand binding to CXCR7 does not result in activation of typical signaling pathways via Gα subunits but activation of GRK2 via βγ subunits and receptor phosphorylation with subsequent β-arrestin2 recruitment. In contrast, CXCR4 induced Gai activation and recruited β-arrestin2 through C-terminal phosphorylation by both GRK2 and GRK5. SDF-1a-stimulated ERK phosphorylation was facilitated by CXCR4, but not CXCR7. Heterodimerization of CXCR4 and CXCR7 was not confirmed in this study, while homodimerization of them was verified by crosslinking experiment and NanoBiT assay. Regarding to chemotaxis, SDF-1a-stimulated cell migration was mediated by both CXCR4 and CXCR7.Conclusion: This study demonstrates that SDF-1a-stimulated CXCR7 mediates β-arrestin2 recruitment via different molecular networking from that of CXCR4. CXCR7 may be neither a simple scavenger nor auxiliary receptor but plays an essential role in cell migration through cooperation with CXCR4.
Relationship between Admission Criteria andAcademic Performance in Basic Science Courses in Health Science Colleges in KAU
Authors: Alamoudi Aliaa Amr , Falattah Hind Ibrahim , Eldakhakhny Basmah Medhat , kamel Fatemah Omar , AlSawwa Lana Adey , Elsamanoudy Ayman Zaky
Published: November 2020

Background: In King Abdulaziz University, medical and health science schools depend on admission exams (Aptitude and Achievement) and Preparatory year scores in their students’ selection. However, with the growing number of applicants and the drastic changes in teaching and assessment in these colleges continuous assessment and development of admission criteria are needed. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the correlation of admission exam scores, in addition to the Preparatory year GPA, with academic performance in the basic science subjects such as Clinical Biochemistry and Clinical Pharmacology in health science colleges.Methods: The study was conducted on four cohort studies, two faculty of nursing cohorts; Nursing students (2017-2018,n=146) Nursing students (2018-2019,n=81), and two faculty of applied medical sciences cohorts, Clinical Nutrition students (2017-2018,n=33), Clinical Nutrition students (2018-2019,n=28) .The students’ scores of General Aptitude Test (GAT), Scholastic Achievement Admission Test (SAAT ), and preparatory year GPA were all recorded at the beginning of each semester before the beginning of courses. Clinical Biochemistry and Clinical Pharmacology exam results were recorded at the end of the semester. Correlation was done for each cohort and all cohorts pooled. Results: Results showed only a weak correlation detected between SAAT and the overall achievement in Clinical Biochemistry ( r= 0.192*, P= 0.042) in Nursing students (2017-2018) but no correlation was seen with SAAT or preparatory year scores. There was also no significant correlation between admission exams scores and the students ‘academic achievement in Clinical Pharmacology, and with On the other hand Clinical Pharmacology exam results showed a significant positive correlation with Clinical Biochemistry results (r=0.688, P=0.000). Conclusion: Our results could indicate the need to revisit the admission criteria for these colleges. Furthermore, specific preparatory year tracks for health science colleges can ensure that students improve the specific skills and knowledge required for their future college years.
Unexpected increase of myocardial extracellular volume fraction in low cardiovascular risk HIV patients
Authors: BORRAZZO CRISTIAN , d'Ettorre Gabriella , Ceccarelli Giancarlo , Pacilio Massimiliano , Santinelli Letizia , Cavallari Eugenio Nelson , Spagnolello Ornella , Silvestri Valeria , Vassalini Paolo , Scagnolari Carolina , Francone Marco , Mastroianni Claudio Maria , Carbone Iacopo
Published: November 2020

Background: People living with HIV (PLWH) are prone to develop sub-clinical Cardiovascular (CV) disease, despite the effectiveness of combined Antiretroviral Therapy (cART). Algorithms developed to predict CV risk in the general population could be inaccurate when applied to PLWH. Myocardial Extra-Cellular Matrix (ECM) expansion, measured by computed tomography, has been associated with an increased CV vulnerability in HIV-negative population. Measurement of Myocardial Extra-Cellular Volume (ECV) by computed tomography or magnetic resonance, is considered a useful surrogate for clinical evaluation of ECM expansion. In the present study, we aimed to determine the extent of cardiovascular involvement in asymptomatic HIV-infected patients with the use of a comprehensive cardiac computed tomography (CCT) approach.Materials and methods: In the present study, ECV in low atherosclerotic CV risk PLWH was compared with ECV of age and gender matched HIV- individuals. 53 asymptomatic HIV+ individuals (45 males, age 48 (42.5-48) years) on effective cART (CD4+ cell count: 450 cells/μL (IQR: 328-750); plasma HIV RNA: <37 copies/ml in all subjects) and 18 age and gender matched controls (14 males, age 55 (44.5-56) years) were retrospectively enrolled. All participants underwent CCT protocol to obtain native and postcontrast Hounsfield unit values of blood and myocardium, ECM was calculated accordingly.Results: The ECV was significantly higher in HIV+ patients than in the control group (ECV: 31% (IQR: 28%-31%) vs 27.4% (IQR: 25%-28%), p<0.001). The duration of cART (standardized β=0.56 (0.33-0.95), p=0.014) and the years of exposure to HIV infection (standardized β=0.53 (0.4-0.92), p<0.001), were positively and strongly associated with ECV values. Differences in ECV (p<0.001) were also observed regarding the duration of cART exposure (<5 years, 5-10 years and >10 years). Moreover, ECV was independently associated with age of participants (standardized β = 0.42 (0.33-0.89), p=0.084).Conclusions: HIV infection and exposure to antiretrovirals play a detrimental role on ECV expansion. An increase in ECV indicates ECM expansion, which has been associated to a higher CV risk in the general population. The non-invasive evaluation of ECM trough ECV could represent an important tool to further understand the relationship between HIV infection, cardiac pathophysiology and the increased CV risk observed in PLWH.
Experiences of Frontline Pakistani Emigrant Physicians Combating COVID-19 in the United Kingdom: A Qualitative Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Saleem Javeria , Ishaq Muhammad , Zakar Rubeena , Suddahazai Imran Hussain Khan , Fischer Florian
Published: November 2020

Background: This study aims to explore the experiences, beliefs, feelings and challenges faced by Pakistani migrant doctors working in the United Kingdom in times of the COVID-19 pandemic. This qualitative approach was chosen to document their lived experiences and to develop a post-COVID-19 response to help them recover from their shared and individual traumas.Methods: An empirical phenomenological approach was used to collate data on experiences made during the COVID-19 pandemic. Purposive and snowball sampling was used to target participants, which were doctors of Pakistani origin involved in the direct care and management of COVID-19 patients in different NHS hospitals of the United Kingdom. Semi-structured, in-depth telephonic interviews were conducted with study participants in May 2020. Data collection was done parallel with data analysis by using standard qualitative methods.Results: We recruited ten frontline physicians. Four theme categories emerged from the data analysis: 1) Working across borders and cultures, 2) Role of beliefs for coping stress and fear, 3) Passion and profession, and 4) Scaffolding the Pakistani health system. Overall, the results show that the participants received no professional support, in terms of counselling and psychological rehabilitation. Instead, they had to use self-management strategies to cope with the situation. Conclusion: The intensive work exhausted participants physically and emotionally. They were holding a lot of grief and hurt inside; but still healthcare professionals showed the spirit of professional dedication to overcome difficulties. Although currently coping with their emotional problems, comprehensive professional support should be made available to them in order to cater for the wellbeing of frontline physicians.
Overexpression of Medicago sativa cv. Pianguan miR397-5p gene enhances drought tolerance in K326 tobacco
Authors: Zhu Huisen , Jia Rong , Tao Jiali , Jiang Junbing , Dong Kuanhu
Published: November 2020

Background

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa cv. Pianguan) is one of the most widely cultivated perennial leguminous forage. Drought is one of the major abiotic factors that affect alfalfa productivity. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been proved playing important roles in plant growth, development and stress response.
Results

In this study, High-throughput sequencing (HTSeq) was used to identify the miRNAs and their target related to drought stress from polyethylene glycol treated and control alfalfa samples, differential expression analysis showed that a large number of miRNAs were down-regulated or up-regulated as a result of PEG-6000 stress. qRT-PCR and sequencing analysis results showed that the relative expression of 9 miRNAs and their target genes related to drought stress, 3 miRNAs were considered potential drought-responsive miRNAs, including miR159b, miR397-5p and unconservative_6_4438. The recombinant plasmid vector pBWA(V)KS-miR397 was constructed and introduced into tobacco successfully. 31 positive seedlings were obtained through the process of infection, co-culture, differentiation and rooting. The physiologieal variation of transgenic tobacco under drought stress was researched. Finally, a new tobacco variety with high drought resistance was obtained.
Conclusion

These finding although need further studies to confirm, these data provide a useful evidence for the possible involvement of miRNAs in the process of drought response in the alfalfa plant which could help explain the drought stress responses and to alleviate the adverse effects of drought stress on plant growth and development.
A Small-Scale Qualitative Study of Early Comprehensive Patient Engagement in Acute Clinical Settings: Is It Feasible?
Authors: Jensen Andrea Nedergaard , Andersen Ove , Gamst-Jensen Hejdi , Kristiansen Maria
Published: November 2020

Background: Patient-centered care (PCC) based on systematic and comprehensive patient engagement is important for patient satisfaction. However, ensuring PCC is difficult in emergency departments (ED) characterized by a high patient flow and a substantial proportion of older adults with multimorbidity and complex care needs. This small-scale qualitative study aimed to identify potentials and barriers for providing early PCC for older adults in Danish EDs using a novel user-engagement conversation tool.Methods: Participant observation, focus group interviews and individual semi-structured interviews with ED nurses and geriatric nurses were conducted between September and December 2019 in an ED at a hospital in the Capital Region of Denmark. Thematic network analysis with a focus on potentials and barriers for patient engagement was conducted.Results: Two key subthemes related to potentials emerged: 1) a positive attitude towards patient engagement in the context of PCC, and; 2) perceived benefits of PCC overall and the engagement tool in particular. Additionally, two key subthemes related to barriers emerged: 1) time constraints and; 2) concerns related to the importance of cross-sectoral care coordination.Conclusion: This study contributes to mounting evidence in support of policies and practices that encourage PCC as a driver of unpacking patients’ needs and values leading to targeted follow-up care. However, barriers such as time constraints, and lack of cross-sectoral care collaboration should be acknowledged if the potentials of PCC is to be fulfilled in ED settings.
Development and Validation for Prognostic Nomogram of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Recurrence based on Circulating Tumor Cells and Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Yang Jiani , Ma Jun , Jin Yue , Cheng Shanshan , Huang Shan , Zhang Nan , Wang Yu
Published: November 2020

We aimed to determine prognosis value of circulating tumor cells(CTCs) undergoing epithelial–mesenchymal transition(EMT) in epithelial ovarian cancer(EOC) recurrence. We used CanPatrol CTC-enrichment technique to detect CTCs from blood samples and classify subpopulations into epithelial, mesenchymal and hybrids. To construct nomogram, prognostic factors were selected by Cox regression analysis. Risk stratification was performed through Kaplan–Meier analysis among training group(n=114) and validation group(n=38). By regression screening, both CTC counts(HR 1.187; 95%CI 1.098-1.752; p=0.012) and M-CTC(HR 1.098; 95%CI 1.047-1.320; p=0.009) were demonstrated as independent factors for recurrence. Other variables including pathological grade, FIGO stage, lymph node metastasis, ascites and CA-125 were also collected(p < 0.005) to construct nomogram. The C-index of internal and external validation for nomogram was 0.913 and 0.874. We found significant predictive value for nomogram with/without CTCs (AUC 0.8705 and 0.8097). Taking CTC counts and M-CTC into separation, the values were 0.8075 and 0.8262. Finally, survival curves of risk stratification based on CTC counts(p=0.0241), M-CTC(p=0.0107) and the nomogram(p=0.0021) were drawn with significant difference. In conclusion, CTCs could serve as a novel factor for EOC prognosis. Nomogram model constructed by CTCs and other clinical parameters could predict EOC recurrence and perform risk stratification for clinical decision-making.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR-DDD-16009601, October 25, 2016
On-chip sampling of optical fields with attosecond resolution
Authors: Bionta Mina , Ritzkowsky Felix , Turchetti Marco , Yang Yujia , Mor Dario Cattozzo , Putnam William , Kärtner Franz , Berggren Karl , Keathley Phillip
Published: November 2020

We demonstrate an on-chip, optoelectronic device capable of sampling arbitrary, low-energy, near-infrared waveforms under ambient conditions with sub-optical-cycle resolution. Our detector uses field-driven photoemission from resonant nanoantennas to create attosecond electron bursts that probe the electric field of weak optical waveforms. Using these devices, we sampled the electric fields of ~5 fJ (6.4 MV m-1), few-cycle, near-infrared waveforms using ~50 pJ (0.64 GV m-1) near-infrared driving pulses. Beyond sampling these weak optical waveforms, our measurements directly reveal the localized plasmonic dynamics of the emitting nanoantennas in situ. Applications include broadband time-domain spectroscopy of molecular fingerprints from the visible through the infrared, time-domain analysis of nonlinear phenomena, and detailed investigations of strong-field light-matter interactions.
Transparent-Conductive-Oxide-Free Front Contacts for High Efficiency Silicon Heterojunction Solar Cells
Authors: Li Shenghao , Pomaska Manuel , Lambertz Andreas , Duan Weiyuan , Bittkau Karsten , Qiu Depeng , Yao Zhirong , Luysberg Martina , Steuter Paul , Koehler Malte , Qiu Kaifu , Hong Ruijiang , Shen Hui , Finger Friedhelm , Kirchartz Thomas , Rau Uwe , Ding Kaining
Published: November 2020

In order to compensate the insufficient conductance of heterojunction thin films, transparent conductive oxides (TCO) have been used for decades in both-sides contacted crystalline silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells to provide lateral conduction for efficient carrier collection. In this work, we substitute the TCO layers by utilizing the lateral conduction of c-Si absorber, thereby enabling a TCO-free design. A series resistance of 0.32 Ωcm2 and a fill factor of 80.7% were measured for a TCO-free back-junction SHJ solar cell with a conventional finger pitch of 1.8 mm, thereby proving that relying on lateral conduction in the c-Si bulk is compatible with low series resistances. Achieving high efficiencies in SHJ solar cells with TCO-free front contacts requires suppressing deterioration of the passivation quality induced by direct metal-a-Si:H contacts and in-diffusion of metal into the a-Si:H layer. We show that an ozone treatment at the a-Si:H/metal interface suppresses the metal diffusion and improves the passivation without increasing the contact resistivity. SHJ solar cells with TCO-free front contacts and ozone treatment achieve efficiencies of > 22%.
Laboratory Testing Implications of Risk-Stratification and Management of COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Liu Caidong , Wang Ziyu , Wu Wei , Xiang Changgang , Wu Lingxiang , Li Jie , Hou Weiye , Sun Huiling , Wang Youli , Nie Zhenling , Gao Yingdong , Zhang Ruisheng , Li Kening , Xia Xinyi , Wang Qianghu , Wang Shukui
Published: November 2020

The progression from mild to critical illness is the main reason leading to the death of COVID-19 patients. Rapid risk-stratification at admission is important for precise management of COVID-19. Here, we developed a practical admission stratification model to predict the severity during hospitalization of COVID-19 patients using laboratory data from 3563 patients, including 548 patients in the training dataset, and 3015 patients in the testing dataset. We first identified the significant laboratory indicators related to the severity of COVID-19 in the training dataset. Neutrophils percentage (NEUT%), lymphocytes percentage (LYMPH%), creatinine (CREA), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) with AUC greater than 0.7 were included in the model. These indicators were further used to build a support vector machine model to classify patients into low-risk and high-risk at admission. Results showed that this model could stratify the patients in the testing dataset effectively (AUC=0.89). Moreover, laboratory indicators detected in the first week after admission were able to estimate the probability of death (AUC=0.95). Besides, we could diagnose COVID-19 and differentiated it from other kinds of viral pneumonia based on laboratory indicators (accuracy=0.97). Our risk-stratification model based on laboratory indicators could help to diagnose, monitor, and predict severity at an early stage of COVID-19.
“And Again, the Skald Will Add Someone Else’s Song”: “Marine”, “Scottish”, “May” and Other Ballad Stylizations by Georgy Ivanov
Authors:   Institute of Philology, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Elena Yu. Kulikova
Published: November 2020

The thematic justification involves demand for detecting and identifying patterns of transformation and modification of ballads by poets of the Silver Age. The twentieth century loved poetry experiments, a game with form, and there are a variety of genres: sonnets, rondos, gazella, pantoons, ballads in the works of symbolists and especially those of the Acmeists. Acmeist ballads reveal a part of the early twentieth century poetic world and contain both the traditional elements of the genre and the features of modernism. The works by Georgy Ivanov, the so-called “youngest acmeist”, who was a member of the Petrograd “Workshop of poets”, presents a variety of lyrical genres. The purpose of our study is to consider the ballads and ballad stylization of G. Ivanov. The purpose of the work determines its methodological basis, which includes the historical and literary, phenomenological, typological and comparative approaches. The stylization which is inherent in all of Ivanov’s ballads (“Song of the Pirate Ola”, “May Ballad”, “Scottish Ballad”, “Ballad about the Publisher”) and his ballad poems, allows to see the genre in a new aspect. The poet observes ballad rules – a tragic plot, romantic “vagueness” of narration, ballad motifs (ominous raven, night stories, turning into the past, etc.). However, these rules are distorted and stylized. Traditional ballad plots are so intensified that forcing the features creates a comic or ironic effect, the combination of motives turns out to be multilayer. G. Ivanov creates a parody in some cases and in some cases, a stylized ballad. The game and the love of stylization which characterize G. Ivanov throughout his creative life open up a new genre that he practically created by himself. Keywords: ballad genre, G. Ivanov, stylization, parody, motive, lyrical plot
The Role of the Motive of Reading in K. Paustovsky’s Novel Shining Clouds (1928)
Authors:   The Role of the Motive of Reading in K. Paustovsky’s Novel Shining Clouds (1928), Natalya V. Nalegach
Published: November 2020

The article is devoted to the consideration of the artistic functioning of the reading motive in K. G.Paustovsky’s little-known novel Shining Clouds (1928). The motivational analysis undertaken in the work revealed the significance of the readers’ horizons of the characters of the work, not only for characterizing their inner world. In the case when it comes to the reading circle of the main characters, we can talk about the functions of plot prediction and create the pathos of romance. In this regard, mentioning the works by J. London, V. Hugo, E. T. A. Hoffmann, O. Henry, etc., is noteworthy. Since the plot of Shining Clouds is subordinated to the genre assignment of a detective-adventurous novel, the reading experience of such heroes as captain Kravchenko, Baturin and Berg allows you to actualize this form, performing the role of the genre framework in a work with a high level of lyrical digressions. Of particular note is the insertion text ‒ Nelidov’s diary, which simultaneously functions as the sought-after treasure and the actual text, in which engineering and art are organically combined. By virtue of this position in the structure of the novel, Nelidov’s diary enters into complex dialogical relations with other works read by heroes, which prompts a closer analysis of its fragments in comparison with the works of real writers. This comparison comes to the fore in the poem Galatea by L. Mei and the travelogue Journey to Arzrum by A. S. Pushkin, which allows you to see the place of the reading motive in the motif-thematic complex of creativity, as well as go to the author’s concept of a new person embodied in the image of Nelidov and a genuine value that encourages the heroes of the novel to go on a “treasure hunt”. Keywords: K. Paustovsky, motive, reading, novel, poetics
Poetics of the Story Dere ‒ Water Wedding (1932) in the Context of V. Mart’s Far Eastern Prose of the 1920–1930s
Authors:   Institute of Philology, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Ekaterina A. Denisova
Published: November 2020

The article discusses the poetics of the story Dere ‒ Water Wedding by Venedikt Mart in the context of prose published in the period from 1924 to 1930 devoted to the Far East topics. The writer is often remembered as one of the brightest representatives of futurism in the Far East, however, his prose is still poorly understood. V. Mart’s work is closely connected with the literary process of the Asia-Pacific region, this work reflects the problem of the loss of national and cultural identity of the Far Eastern population, in particular the identity of “gol’dy”. The story has an educational orientation and, at the same time, has a peculiar artistic world. The article discusses the methods of creating fabulous coloring at the substantive and narrative levels. The purpose of the study is to identify the features of poetics and plot through which the author shows the loss of self-identification and the loss of the ancient traditions of a small Far Eastern people under the influence of the realities of the “new life”. We consider the story Dere ‒ Water Wedding as the last prose work by V. Mart on the Far Eastern theme in the context of his other works in order to trace the artistic transformations and changes in texts devoted to this subject. The study revealed that by the beginning of the 1930s, the writer had abandoned futuristic techniques using irony to create a comic effect and returning to the origins of literature ‒ a fairy tale story. A comprehensive study of V. Mart’s work on one topic allows us to identify another feature of his work ‒ the use of “nomadic” phrases, which are almost literally repeated in texts published in another years. Keywords: V. Mart, self-identification, rare book, the Far East, poetics
Genital Autonomy as a Sexual Right
Authors:   Sexpo Foundation, Helsinki, Finland, Vilponen T.
Published: November 2020

Objective: This talk will explore the ongoing and progressive ways of promoting genital autonomy for female, male and intersex children and youngsters. Within the last few years in various countries across Europe, especially in Germany, UK and the Nordic countries, the right to bodily integrity as a sexual right has been on the agenda creating constructive discussions as well as promising practices and statements. Design and Method: The key developments have been reflected in the governmental agencies, such as Nordic Ombudspersons for Children and the Council of Europe after persistent work in the field of NGO. Many organizations are working separately and increasingly together to develop advocacy strategies and lobby decision-makers. Also, general public is now better informed of the multiple problems of non-therapeutic genital surgery. Results: Even if governments act for the future, there is still a need to cater for the needs of those who are suffering from the loss of their sexual rights. Counsellors, therapists, psychologists and medical personnel need to be able to provide relevant data, support and advice. Conclusions: This progress is possible by educating people to combat the harmful traditions and by raising awareness of sexual rights.
The Male Sexual Pain: Issues and Treatments
Authors:   Promea Day Surgery, Turin, Italy, Del Noce G. , Duretto W. ,   Privat Practice, Turin, Italy, Bochicchio R. ,   Privat Practice, Turin, Italy, Ragni F. ,   San Luigi Hospital School of Medicine Division of Urology, Turin, Italy
Published: November 2020

Objective: There are several kinds of male genital pain which can cause mental suffering. Usually, they emerge during ordinary urological or andrological examinations. These distresses, sine materia, can be divided into different groups. Design and Method: The first group, which is the most frequent one, mainly affects the testicles; usually, this kind of distress last all life and it is often associated with surgery and/or frequent examinations to the genitals during childhood. The second group encompasses cases of real penodinia: the patients express their discomfort especially uncovering the glan and, for this reason, this action is never done. This distress is not always referred to as pain, but more often as bothersome. Sexual intercourses are permitted. Often the patients undergo a circumcision that usually has a complicated postoperative course. The males of the third group correspond to the women suffering from vaginismus. The patients do not even tolerate the approach of the hand to the penis and they make the same actions and the same movements as the vaginismic women. The patients are unable to have sex. This phenomenon is rare. In a perspective of multi-disciplinary and integrated methodology, the patients were treated with traditional surgery and/or with administration of drugs and/or with sexual therapy according with the integrated Kaplan method and/or with techniques for the rehabilitation of the pelvic floor. Results: Some clinical cases will be presented and discussed. Conclusions: The Authors describe new categories of male genital pain, never defined before, similar to Vulvodynia or Vaginism in women.
Sexologist Training Could Have an Influence on Attitudes Toward LG Marriage And Parenting?
Authors:   Institute of Clinical Sexology, Rome, Italy, Viozzi E. , Tripodi F. ,   Institute of Clinical Sexology, Rome, Italy, Nimbi F. M. ,   Department of Clinical and Dynamic Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy, Baiocco R. ,   Department of Development and Socialization Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy, Simonelli C. ,   Department of Clinical and Dynamic Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
Published: November 2020

Objective: Negative attitudes towards same-sex families persist among health professionals. This study investigates the influence of educational programs in sexology (EPS) on sexism, homophobia and attitudes of sexologists towards lesbian and gay (LG) marriage and same-sex parenting. Design and Method: Data were collected on 552 subjects (376 F and 134 M); the EPS group was composed by professionals who had attended a training course in accredited schools by Italian Federation of Scientific Sexology (FISS). The protocol was computer-based and self-administered (15 minutes to complete). It was composed of: questionnaire for socio-demographic information; Ambivalent Sexism Inventory; Measure of Sexual internalized stigma for Lesbians and Gays; Modern Homophobia Scale; The Katuzny Same-Sex Marriage Scale; D’Amore and Green Same-Sex Parenting Scale. Results: The EPS group reported lower levels of sexism (F(1,401)=4.40, p<.05) and homophobia (F(1,401)=5.15, p <.05), a more positive attitudes toward LG marriage (F(1,545)=7.67, p <.01) and same-sex parenting (F(1,545)=17.34; p<.001). In particular, participants in this group declared more favorable attitudes to specific pathways to parenthood, such as: adoption for homosexual couples, artificial insemination for lesbians, and in vitro fertilization for lesbians. Conclusions: Professionals who got EPS show more positive attitudes toward same-sex marriage and parenting. Having a specific training on these issues appears to be functional to the development of attitudes based on equal rights and not based on heterosexism. These results have important implications in both clinic and social issues related to LGBT health.
Absence of Pleasure during Orgasm: A Functional or an Emotional Problem?
Authors:   Isa, Istituto Italiano Sessoanalisi, Salerno, Italy, Trotta D. , Strepetova T. ,   Isa, Istituto Italiano Sessoanalisi, Salerno, Italy, Otranto L. ,   Isa, Istituto Italiano Sessoanalisi, Salerno, Italy, De Maio G. ,   Isa, Istituto Italiano Sessoanalisi, Salerno, Italy, Gorga F. ,   Isa, Istituto Italiano Sessoanalisi, Salerno, Italy, Langella C. ,   Isa, Istituto Italiano Sessoanalisi, Salerno, Italy
Published: November 2020

Objective: We present the case of an adult man complaining of orgasmic anhedonia. The patient who has no health problems or psychic diseases, doesn’t smoke and is immune of biological risk factors. Andrological physical, biochemical and instrumental investigation shows no evidence of organic cause. The man who is forty five, is married, has two children and is able to copulate twice a week, with his attractive wife. We have two objectives: 1 to uncover the cause of the patient’s sexual complaint and 2 to give him the possibility to profit of his erectile capacity and fully enjoy sexuality. Design and Method: After a complete sexual anamnesis, we invite the patient to describe in detail his sexual activity and behavior, his attitude and feeling towards sex and sexuality. We investigate his autoerotic and sexual fantasies and focus our attention on the continuity-discontinuity of his sexual reality and imaginary. Results: The clinical investigation, conducted with empathy and respectful of the patient’s difficulties, let gradually emerge a controversial sexual scenario. Our first objective is reached. The patient has now the possibility to solve his symptom, negotiating with its reasons or to continue to live with it. Conclusions: Lack of sexual pleasure or male orgasmic anhedonia can be expression of an unmanageable or dystonic erotization and not of a functional inability. Sexologist can help patients to clarify by themselves the nature of their symptoms and to decide about the suitability of their resolution.
Endometriosis and Infertility: Impact on Sexuality
Authors:   Institute of Clinical Sexology, Rome, Italy, Rossi V. , Viozzi E. ,   Institute of Clinical Sexology, Rome, Italy, Nimbi F. M. ,   Department of Clinical and Dynamic Psychology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy, Tripodi F. ,   Institute of Clinical Sexology, Rome, Italy, Porpora M. G. ,   Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Urology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
Published: November 2020

Objective: Endometriosis is a condition that has a great impact on women’s life. One of the most important consequences of the disease is infertility that may exacerbate the psychological, relational and sexual consequences on patients. The aim of the present study was to examine quality of life, anxiety, sexual functioning and relationship satisfaction of women with endometriosis and infertility. Infertility is supposed to be associated with a worse clinical profile. Design and Method: Data were collected on 71 patients (39 women with endometriosis and 32 with endometriosis and infertility) aged between 20 and 50 (M=34.21, SD=8.38), recruited in the Gynecological and Obstetrics department of Policlinico Umberto I, Rome. Participants completed: a socio-demographic questionnaire, the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL)-Bref for quality of life, the McCoy Female Sexuality Questionnaire (MFS-Q) for sexual and relationship satisfaction, the Female Sexual Functioning Index (FSFI) for sexual functioning and the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) for anxiety symptoms. Results: Women without infertility obtained worse scores: sexual functioning (F(1,69)=10.97 p<.01), sexual (F(1,69)=17.44 p<.001) and relationship satisfaction (F(1,69)=10.18 p<.001) and quality of life (F(1,69)=13.56 p<.001). Conclusions: Contrary to our hypothesis, endometriosis, with or without fertility impairment, has an impact on patients’ relationship, sexuality and quality of life. Therefore, infertility is not the main factor that explains a negative clinical profile. The present study suggests the importance of psychosexual counseling during medical treatment of the disease, and the need of involving partners in the assessment and in the health care decision making.
A Comparison of Baseline Erectile Function after Ondemand 20 Mg Tadalafil vs. Daily 5 mg Tadalafil in Men with Erectile Dysfunction and Diabetes: A Prospective, Observational 2-Year Study
Authors:   Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, South Korea, Park H. , Park N. ,   Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, South Korea
Published: November 2020

Objective: We studied whether long-term use of 5 mg tadalafil once daily improved baseline erectile function or prevented erectile dysfunction (ED) in men with diabetes. Design and Method: Men with ED and diabetes were assigned to 20 mg tadalafil on-demand or 5 mg tadalafil once daily. When men completed the questionnaire after 2 years of treatment, they also stopped the medication for 4 weeks to check baseline erectile function. The primary efficacy variable was the IIEF-EF score. Secondary variables included a change in the scores IIEF Q3 and Q4 from baseline, changes in all domain scores on the IIEF from baseline, SEP2 and SEP3, and GAQ. Rigiscan® measurements of nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity (NPTR) were also carried out after the 2year treatment. Results: The study enrolled 118 men. After 2 years, daily treatment group had a greater change in IIEF-EF score from baseline (7.3 vs. 2.4, P < 0.0001). The changes in IIEF from baseline on Q3 (1.4 vs. 0.4, P < 0.0001) and Q4 (1.4 vs. 0.3, P < 0.0001) were higher in the daily group. Differences between daily and on-demand groups were significant for SEP2 (53.8% vs. 32.3%) and SEP3 (56.6% vs. 15.4%). Normal EF domain scores at the end of study were achieved by 20.7% in daily groups. Normal NPTR at tend of study was achieved by 13.2% only in the daily group. Conclusions: Long-term use of 5 mg tadalafil once daily was more beneficial for improving baseline erectile function or preventing ED than the on-demand pattern in men with ED and diabetes.
Impact of Metabolic Syndrome on the Occurrence of Premature Ejaculation
Authors:   Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea, Jeh S. , Choi S. ,   Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea, Kam S. ,   Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea, Hwa J. ,   Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea, Chung K. ,   Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea, Seo D. ,   Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea, Hyun J. ,   Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea, Woo Lee S. ,   Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea
Published: November 2020

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of MetS in pathogenesis of ejaculatory symptoms, particularly PE. In addition, we evaluate the other risk factors associated with PE. Design and Method: Between January 2010 and July 2014, we analyzed the medical records of men who had visited to our Urology clinic for screening of male health. To evaluate the risk factors including MetS for PE, patients were assessed self-reported intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), the Male Sexual Health Questionnaire (MSHQ-EjD) for Ejaculatory Dysfunction, NIHChronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI), and Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male (ADAM) scales. Premature ejaculation defined as self-reported IELT <1 minute, and metabolic syndrome diagnosed by modified National Cholesterol Education Program’s Third Adult Treatment Panel (NCEP ATP III) criteria. Results: Among the total of 1029 men, 74 patients (7.2%) were considered to have PE (ejaculation within 1 min) and 111 patients (10.8%) were considered to have MetS. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that IIEF OS score (OR 0.670, P <0.001), NIH-CPSI pain score (OR 1.070, P = 0.048), NIH-CPSI voiding score (OR 1.167, P = 0.040), and metabolic syndrome (OR 2.187, P = 0.023) were significantly related to the prevalence of PE. Conclusions: MetS may be an important predisposing factor for the development of PE, and consequently its effective prevention and treatment could also be important for the prevention of PE.
Obesity, Anxiety, Depression and Sexual Desire: A Study on a Sample of Obese Patients
Authors:   Società Piemontese Sessuologia Clinica, Torino, Italy, Colombo M. , Zeppegno P. ,   Sc Psichiatria Aou Maggiore della Carità Upo A Avogadro, Novara, Italy, D’Andrea F. ,   Sc Dietologia Aou Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy, Torre E. ,   Sc Psichiatria Aou Maggiore della Carità Upo A Avogadro, Novara, Italy
Published: November 2020

Objective: Evaluate the presence of anxiety and depression in a group of male and female patients, either overweight or obese, after a first medical examination at the dietetics dept. at Ospedale Maggiore in Novara. Evaluate sexual desire both in autoerotism and in a couple situations. Evaluate the relationship between sexual desire, anxiety and depression. Evaluate the perception patients have of their body and the presence of anger (state and trait) analyzing its main components. Design and Method: 100 patients were included in the study. The study protocol consists of: sociodemographic data, HADS, Sexual Desire Inventory, BC Scale and STAXI 2. Results: The levels of anxiety, depression and dissatisfaction on every patient’s body are elevated. There was evidence of low levels of sexual desire in the female sample and normal levels in men. There were no statistically significant associations between depression, anxiety and low sex drive. In both sexes there is a tendency to control the rage within. Men mostly express rage verbally while women express it physically. Conclusions: Proper nutrition is helpful to sexuality and mood.
Sex After Menopause: Why Not?
Authors:   Barwon Consulting Suites, Geelong, Australia, Hamilton R.
Published: November 2020

Objective: Why do we care whether the menopausal woman engages in – let alone enjoys – sexual pleasure or not? It is surely a very individual area and should be addressed on an individual basis. Today, the majority of menopausal women are busy with work, looking after children and grandchildren and lead fulfilling, busy lives. Why not a great sexual life too? Design and Method: Retrospective analysis of peri and post-menopausal women, experiencing problems related to sexual dysfunction. Detailed sexual health history was obtained, detailing specifics around gynaecological and sexual health screenings and interventions. This gave rise to key factors that displayed sexual dysfunction elements, but once addressed, diminished or resolved the dysfunction. Results: It was found that the majority of women were guarded in discussing sexual problems from a psychosexual framework, however, it remained less challenging to subscribe to the perceived problem being a medical/gynaecological problem. Awareness of age-related health issues and discussion around this influenced appropriate management. Conclusions: Adequate baseline screening is a key concept to address practical impediments and discuss these from a normal aging process. A direct approach, practical information, engagement with the partner and awareness of options around sexual positions and exploration drive these consultations positively. Support and education via linking with a Clinical Psychologist during this process was found to be a key aspect to outcome.