bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defining Basque music: Charles Bordes' (1863–1909) musical regionalism and influence in the Basque Country and Paris
Authors: Odriozola Otamendi Asier
Published: June 2022

This paper analyses the influence of the French composer and musicologist Charles Bordes (1863–1909) on the definition of ‘Basque music’ both in the peninsular Basque Country and in Paris. On the one hand, it studies Bordes' ideological background, his vision of traditional Basque music and the acceptance of his shared musicological legacy in Basque regionalist and nationalist circles. On the other hand, it pays particular attention to the reception of his ideas in the Parisian musical milieu through the analysis of the criticism aroused by the premieres of two Basque‐themed operas: Ramuntcho (1908) and Chiquito (1909). This article frames Bordes' activity within the regionalist movement in France. However, it also draws attention to the transnational and ambivalent nature of regionalism, especially in cross‐border spaces, where regionalist discourses could take divergent forms according to the different nationalist agendas with which they were associated.
The Psychology of Offering Wasta: Inferences from Narratives
Authors: Al‐Twal Arwa
Published: June 2022

There is increasing interest in understanding Wasta and its influences on individuals and organizations alike, but little attention has been paid to uncovering elements related to the psychology of offering Wasta, to understand how individuals make their decisions about being Wasta patrons. Extending on the article “Narrative inquiry: a proposed methodology for Wasta research” in Thunderbird International Business Review Journal, this article presents a set of narratives of five individuals in various occupations and industries who were asked to be the patrons of Wasta in an organizational setting in Jordan. The findings generated from the narratives indicate that the decision of offering Wasta depends on the type of network with the receiver, perceived recipient deservingness, the impact of offering Wasta on the donor, and the donor's reciprocity expectations. Through the narratives, a deep understanding of the psychology of offering Wasta and how it works is obtained. The implications of this research are theoretical and practical and are presented at the end of the paper.
Genetic diversity of the LILRB1 and LILRB2 coding regions in an admixed Brazilian population sample
Authors: Oliveira Maria Luiza Guimarães , Castelli Erick C. , Veiga‐Castelli Luciana C. , Pereira Alison Luis E. , Marcorin Letícia , Carratto Thássia M. T. , Souza Andreia S. , Andrade Heloisa S. , Simões Aguinaldo L. , Donadi Eduardo A. , Courtin David , Sabbagh Audrey , Giuliatti Silvana , Mendes‐Junior Celso Teixeira
Published: June 2022

Leukocyte immunoglobulin (Ig)‐like receptors (LILR) LILRB1 and LILRB2 may play a pivotal role in maintaining self‐tolerance and modulating the immune response through interaction with classical and nonclassical HLA molecules. Although both diversity and natural selection patterns over HLA genes have been extensively evaluated, little information is available concerning the genetic diversity and selection signatures on the LILRB1/2 regions. Therefore, we identified the LILRB1/2 genetic diversity using next‐generation sequencing in a population sample from São Paulo State, Brazil. We identified 58 LILRB1 Single Nucleotide Variants (SNVs), which gave rise to 13 haplotypes, and 41 LILRB2 SNVs arranged into 11 haplotypes. Although we may not exclude as a possible effect of population structure, we found evidence of either positive or purifying selection on LILRB1/2 coding regions. Some residues in both proteins showed to be under the effect of positive selection, suggesting that amino acid replacements in these proteins resulted in beneficial functional changes. Finally, we have revealed that allelic variation (six and five amino acid exchanges in LILRB1 and LILRB2, respectively) affects the structure and/or stability of both molecules. Nonetheless, LILRB2 has shown higher average stability, with no D1/D2 residue affecting protein structure. Overall, our findings demonstrate that LILRB1 and LILRB2 are as polymorphic as HLA class Ib genes and provide strong evidence supporting the directional selection regime hypothesis.
Propagation of classical and low booms through kinematic turbulence with uncertain parameters
Authors: Leconte Roman , Chassaing Jean-Camille , Coulouvrat François , Marchiano Régis
Published: June 2022

The propagation of sonic boom through kinematic turbulence is known to have an important impact on the noise perceived at the ground. In this work, a recent numerical method called FLHOWARD3D based on a one-way approach is used to simulate the propagation of classical and low-boom waveforms. Kinematic turbulence is synthesized following a von Kármán energy spectrum. Two- and three-dimensional (2D and 3D) simulations are compared to experimental measurements, and 2D simulations are found to be slightly less accurate than 3D ones but still consistent with experimental levels around 98% of the time. A stochastic study is carried out on the 2D simulation using the generalized polynomial chaos method with parameters of the von Kármán spectrum as uncertain parameters. Differences between the propagation of a classical N-wave and low booms are observed: the classical N-wave shows higher peak pressure and variations than low-boom signatures. The standard deviation for the peak pressure, the D-weighted sound exposure level (D-SEL), and the perceived level in dB (PLdB) metrics all show a linear increase with the distance, with a faster increase for the classical N-wave for the peak pressure and D-SEL and a similar increase between the different booms for PLdB. In general, it is found that low-boom waveforms show less sensitivity to turbulence.
Implementing Online Discussion and Mind Mapping to Investigate a Disease Outbreak
Authors: Davidson Cole , Hodge Karin
Published: June 2022

The recent increase in online learning modalities due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has created a significant gap in real-time discussions on complex issues. This lack of enrichment from student discussions levies the concern of a deficiency in strong learning outcomes.
Complete Genome Sequence of Paraclostridium bifermentans DSM 14991
Authors: Little G. T. , Sellés Vidal L. , Steadman M. , Leyden-Preece R. , Taylor G. M. , Heap J. T.
Published: June 2022

The complete genome sequence of
Paraclostridium bifermentans
was obtained by assembly of Illumina and Oxford Nanopore (ONT) reads. The sequence will enable study into the organism’s ability to biohydrogenate unsaturated acyl chains in the transformation of C20 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) into the corresponding bioactive non-methylene-interrupted fatty acids (NMIFAs).
Development and Application of Two Inducible Expression Systems for Streptococcus suis
Authors: Zhang Liangsheng , Zou Wenjin , Ni Minghui , Hu Qiao , Zhao Lelin , Liao Xia , Huang Qi , Zhou Rui
Published: June 2022

Streptococcus suis
is an important zoonotic bacterial pathogen. Studying the mechanisms of cell growth and division is important for the identification of novel antimicrobial drug targets.
Cost of primary care approaches for hypertension management and risk-based cardiovascular disease prevention in Bangladesh: a HEARTS costing tool application
Authors: Husain Muhammad Jami , Haider Mohammad Sabbir , Tarannum Renesa , Jubayer Shamim , Bhuiyan Mahfuzur Rahman , Kostova Deliana , Moran Andrew E , Choudhury Sohel Reza
Published: June 2022

Objective

To estimate the costs of scaling up the HEARTS pilot project for hypertension management and risk-based cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention at the full population level in the four subdistricts (upazilas) in Bangladesh.

Settings

Two intervention scenarios in subdistrict health complexes: hypertension management only, and risk-based integrated hypertension, diabetes, and cholesterol management.

Design

Data obtained during July–August 2020 from subdistrict health complexes on the cost of medications, diagnostic materials, staff salaries and other programme components.

Methods

Programme costs were assessed using the HEARTS costing tool, an Excel-based instrument to collect, track and evaluate the incremental annual costs of implementing the HEARTS programme from the health system perspective.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Programme cost, provider time.

Results

The total annual cost for the hypertension control programme was estimated at US$3.2 million, equivalent to US$2.8 per capita or US$8.9 per eligible patient. The largest cost share (US$1.35 million; 43%) was attributed to the cost of medications, followed by the cost of provider time to administer treatment (38%). The total annual cost of the risk-based integrated management programme was projected at US$14.4 million, entailing US$12.9 per capita or US$40.2 per eligible patient. The estimated annual costs per patient treated with medications for hypertension, diabetes and cholesterol were US$18, US$29 and US$37, respectively.

Conclusion

Expanding the HEARTS hypertension management and CVD prevention programme to provide services to the entire eligible population in the catchment area may face constraints in physician capacity. A task-sharing model involving shifting of select tasks from doctors to nurses and local community health workers would be essential for the eventual scale-up of primary care services to prevent CVD in Bangladesh.
Emission feature of the shower particles produced in backward hemisphere in the interaction of 84Kr36 + Em at 1 A GeV
Authors: Kumari Babita , Singh M. K. , Singh R. , Singh V.
Published: June 2022

In this paper, a detailed investigation on the emission feature of the shower particles emitted in the backward hemisphere in the interaction of [Formula: see text] with emulsion at 1[Formula: see text]GeV per nucleons has been carried out. We also studied the effect of shower particles emission in backward hemisphere with composite emulsion target, AgBr target and CNO target. The results are compared with other experimental observation and found to be consistent.
CDK5 Mediates Proinflammatory Effects of Microglia through Activated DRP1 Phosphorylation in Rat Model of Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: He Mingqing , Wang Xiaoyan , Liu Zheng , Cui Qiyuan , Chen Ying , Geng Wenqing , Zhu Jinzhou , Shen Jiabing
Published: June 2022

Introduction. Cyclin-dependent kinase-5 (CDK5) is a key kinase involved in brain development and function and recently found to be involved in neuronal and astroglial apoptosis, neural stem/progenitor cell stemness, mitochondrial fission, and synaptic transmission. But the specific mechanism of CDK5-mediated anti-inflammatory remains unclear in ICH. The aim of the present study was to explore the role of CDK5 in mediating microglia activity through activated DRP1 phosphorylation in a rat ICH model. Methods. We measured behavioral change after ICH; detected the expression of CDK5 in the rat brain using immunohistochemistry; and measured the protein levels of CDK5, p35, p25, p-histone H1, and p-DRP1 using Western blot analysis. Coimmunoprecipitation analysis indicated interaction of CDK5 and DRP1. Tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin- (IL-) 1β, and IL-6 levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results. After ICH, CDK5 protein level and kinase activity increased. Western blot data showed that CDK5 expression increased from 6 h and peaked at 2 d after ICH (

p
<
0.05

), and the expression of p35 was lowest at 12 h, while the expression of p25 peaked at 2 d after ICH. Besides, p-DRP1 expression change follows with CDK5 kinase activity change. Coimmunoprecipitation showed that interaction between CDK5 and DRP1 certainly exists in microglia. Then, knockdown CDK5 or p35 expression by siRNA reduced the expression level of p-DRP1. ELISA data showed that the protein levels of proinflammatory mediators, such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, were decreased by knockdown of CDK5. Conclusion. CDK5 may regulate DRP1 by direct phosphorylation in microglia and further induce microglia secreting proinflammation factor.
Determinants of Modern Agricultural Technology Adoption for Teff Production: The Case of Minjar Shenkora Woreda, North Shewa Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Fikire Abebaw Hailu , Emeru Girma Mulugeta
Published: June 2022

Agriculture is one of Ethiopia’s economic cornerstones, although its production remains low. Since then, the implementation of modern agricultural technologies has remained a promising strategy in Ethiopia for increasing agricultural production, achieving food security, and reducing poverty. The objective of the study is to examine the determinants of modern agricultural technology adoption for teff production in Minjar Shenkora woreda. The data were collected from the representatives of 362 rural households. This study employed both descriptive statistics and multinomial logit model. The estimations of the multinomial logit model revealed that sex, age, marital status, tropical livestock units, educational level of household head, distance to market, extension contact, active household members, access to credit, off-farm activities participation, and cultivated land size are the determinants of modern agricultural technology adoption for teff production in Minjar Shenkora woreda, North Shewa Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia. Therefore, this study recommended that the country’s federal and regional governments, agricultural development offices, nongovernmental organizations, and donor agencies should collaborate with farm households to improve access to information, access to credit, encourage off-farm participation and provide training and consulting services to increase the adoption of modern agricultural technologies.
Serotonin Syndrome Induced Tako-Tsubo Syndrome
Authors: Lancaster Ian , Steinhoff Jeffrey , Mosco-Guzman Jose , Patel Deep
Published: June 2022

Tako-tsubo syndrome is characterized by temporary systolic dysfunction of the left ventricle in the absence of coronary artery disease. Serotonin syndrome is a life-threatening condition associated with increased serotonergic activity in the central nervous system (CNS). We report a case of Tako-tsubo syndrome following seizures secondary to serotonin syndrome.
3D Garment Design Model Based on Convolution Neural Network and Virtual Reality
Authors: Fengyi Liu , Liu Siru
Published: June 2022

The development of virtual reality technology has promoted the unceasing reform and development in the field of fashion design. Aiming at the key technologies and research difficulties in 3D clothing design, the structure of convolution neural network was designed, and a 3D clothing design model based on convolution neural network and virtual reality was constructed. By designing experiments, the average error, matching rate, prediction accuracy, pressure value, and other evaluation indexes are used to measure the performance of convolution neural network model in virtual reality three-dimensional clothing design. The results show that: first, the convolution neural network has the fastest training speed, with the maximum error of 1.63% and the average error of 0.48%. Second, with the increase of parameters, the matching degree of each part of the version and the corresponding data of the human body will gradually increase, the matching rate will slowly improve, and finally tends to 0.9 or so to achieve stability, Thirdly, the prediction accuracy of the convolution neural network is 92.689%, and the loss value is the least. Fourthly, in the virtual fitting and garment wearing experiments, the fit of the sample is within the allowed range, indicating that the automatic generation of fit sample has wearability and rationality.
Revision of carpenter bees of the subgenus Neoxylocopa Michener (Hymenoptera: Apidae) from Mexico and Mesoamerica
Authors: MÉRIDA-RIVAS JORGE A. , HINOJOSA-DÍAZ ISMAEL A. , AYALA-BARAJAS RICARDO , BARRIENTOS-VILLALOBOS S. , POZO CARMEN , VANDAME RÉMY
Published: June 2022

We present a review of the genus Xylocopa (Neoxylocopa) of Mexico and Mesoamerica in which 11 species are recognized, including: X. clarionenis, X. fimbriata, X. frontalis, X. gualanensis, X. mexicanorum, X. nautlana, X. ocellaris, X. sonorina, X. wilmattae. Additionally, two new species are described, X. griswoldi sp. nov. with distribution in the United States and Mexico, and X. maya sp. nov. present in Mexico and Belize. Three species groups within the subgenus Neoxylocopa are recognized: frontalis, mexicanorum and sonorina. Identification keys are presented for identifying species groups and species. Furthermore, images of species and morphological structures as well as information regarding distribution are provided.
Fals Borda’s Historia doble de la Costa: The Anatomy of a Book Unfolding into Queerness
Authors: Pereira Álex
Published: June 2022

Tracing of the queer elements in Orlando Fals Borda’s Historia doble de la Costa, written as part of the development of his participatory action research method, suggests that these elements provide a subversive lens and the strength to destabilize academic conventions and take risks in the analysis of class, race, and gender issues. In addition, they can be seen as stimulating other types of thought and different ways of seeing and understanding social reality.

Es posible rastrear elementos queer en el libro Historia doble de la Costa, escrito por Orlando Fals Borda como parte de su puesta en práctica del método de investigación acción participativa. En esas marcas queer se halla su fuerza para transgredir convenciones académicas, y que ellas le posibilitan tomar riesgos en el análisis de cuestiones de clase, raza y género, además de estimular otros tipos de pensamientos y maneras distintas de ver y entender la realidad social.
Handwriting and typing: Occupational therapy practice when supporting adolescents with handwriting difficulties
Authors: Nightingale Ruth , Sumner Emma , Prunty Mellissa , Barnett Anna L.
Published: June 2022

Introduction

While most children have developed effective handwriting by secondary school age, some have handwriting difficulties that hamper academic progress. Occupational therapists play a role in assessment and planning support, which may include introducing typing as an alternative. However, there is limited understanding regarding how decisions are made about recommending typing. This study explored the support provided to adolescents with handwriting difficulties by occupational therapists, and the contextual factors that influence their decision-making.

Method

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 occupational therapists and analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Although there was shared practice underpinned by occupational therapy philosophy, there was also divergent practice due to different approaches. Roles and responsibilities, resources, and evidence and experience influenced occupational therapists’ practice. Understanding the adolescent’s motivation, the effect of handwriting difficulties on well-being and the need for a functional method to record schoolwork, was central to occupational therapists’ decision-making to recommend typing.

Conclusion

Strategies are needed to address the knowledge-practice gap, including evidence-based guidelines. Closer collaboration between occupational therapists and school staff could increase understanding of roles and highlight the unique occupational therapy contribution. Further research examining whether, when and how to introduce typing as an alternative to handwriting would support best practice.
Associations Between Sexual Assault Victimization and Risky Drinking Within College Women’s Personal Networks
Authors: Patterson Megan S. , Prochnow Tyler , Russell Alex M. , Barry Adam E. , Fehr Sara K.
Published: June 2022

Within a sample of college women, this study assessed if an individual's (i.e., ego) history of sexual assault was related to her connecting with risky drinkers, and if her social contacts (i.e., alters) who had experienced sexual assault were also people who engaged in risky drinking. Results suggest ego's history of sexual assault was associated with her connecting to risky drinkers. Generally, egos reported alters who experienced sexual assault were more likely to drink in higher quantities, except when the ego and alter both had experienced sexual assault. Findings highlight the importance of social connections for survivors of sexual assault.
Preoperative malnutrition as an independent risk factor for the postoperative mortality in elderly Chinese individuals undergoing hip surgery: a single-center observational study
Authors: Feng Long , Chen Wenji , Ping Ping , Ma Tao , Li Yang , Xu Longhe , Feng Zeguo , Zhao Yali , Fu Shihui
Published: June 2022

Objective:

Malnutrition is prevalent in elderly with hip fracture and higher than in community-dwelling older adults. Scarce studies have examined the association between preoperative malnutrition and postoperative mortality in elderly Chinese individuals with hip fracture. This study was designed to explore the effect of preoperative malnutrition on the postoperative long-term mortality in elderly Chinese individuals undergoing hip surgery.

Methods:

As a single-center observational study, this study included 263 consecutive patients above 70 years old with hip fracture and elective surgery. Preoperative nutritional status was evaluated by prognostic nutritional index (PNI). Patients were divided into one group with malnutrition (26 patients with PNI ⩽ 38) and the other group without malnutrition (169 patients with PNI > 38), respectively.

Results:

The overall malnutrition rate was 13.3% (26 patients). The postoperative long-term mortality rates of patients with and without malnutrition had statistically significant difference [10 patients (38.5%) and 32 patients (18.9%), p < 0.05]. Cox regression analysis showed that malnutrition (hazard ratio: 0.269, 95% confidence interval: 0.085–0.859, p < 0.05) and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (hazard ratio: 0.873, 95% confidence interval: 0.790–0.964, p < 0.05) were independent risk factors for the postoperative long-term mortality.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated that preoperative malnutrition was an independent risk factor for the postoperative long-term mortality and resulted in a more than 2.5-fold increase of the postoperative long-term mortality in elderly Chinese individuals undergoing hip surgery.
Finances and Fate: Parent Financial Socialization, Locus of Control, and Mental Health in Emerging Adulthood
Authors: LeBaron-Black Ashley B. , Li Xiaomin , Okamoto Rachel M. , Saxey Matthew T. , Driggs Toby M.
Published: June 2022

Utilizing a sample of 4182 U.S. emerging adults and structural equation modeling, we examined how parent financial socialization received during childhood and adolescence is associated with mental health in emerging adulthood and whether locus of control is an intervening variable. Financial socialization was negatively associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms, and positively associated with life satisfaction. Indirect pathways were found through locus of control. That is, emerging adults who had received better financial socialization were more likely to report an internal locus of control and thus were less likely to be experiencing anxiety and depressive symptoms and more likely to be satisfied with life. These findings provide educators with further evidence of the importance of parent financial socialization, being associated with not only financial health but also mental health. Clinicians of emerging adults may consider financial education and internal locus of control development as intervention points for mental health improvement.
Student–staff partnerships for diversifying and decolonising the higher education curriculum
Authors: Hall Jo , MacDonnell Joanna , McConnell Catherine , Jones Jennie
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we discuss a student–staff partnership project to diversify and decolonise the Higher Education curriculum at the University of Brighton, UK. The Inclusive Practice Partnership Scheme was launched in November 2020, and now in its second year, recruits 64 undergraduate students to co-develop the curriculum within each of the eight Schools across the University. The Scheme is unique in the sector in its focus on undergraduate student experience as the catalyst for a review of curriculum, supporting the development of this work across a wide range of subject areas. It uses the expertise of academic developers to guide and facilitate the work, developing an institutional approach with localised strategies and outcomes, and establishing effective partnership working relationships with academic staff to change perceptions about the relevance and importance of curriculum reparation in all disciplinary areas. The Scheme is a key part of University strategy that aims to address differential outcomes for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic students and is supported through the Access and Participation Plan and Race Equality Charter Action Plan.
A qualitative, cross-cultural investigation into the impact of potentially traumatic work events on Saudi and UK ambulance personnel and how they cope
Authors: Alshahrani Khalid Mufleh , Johnson Judith , Hill Lawrence , Alghunaim Tmam Abdulaziz , Sattar Raabia , O’Connor Daryl B.
Published: June 2022

Background

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common among ambulance personnel, but its prevalence varies between developed and developing countries. This study aimed to investigate the lived experience of potentially traumatic work events between Saudi and UK ambulance personnel.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews with 16 ambulance workers from Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom (8 participants from each country) were conducted to explore their lived experiences of potentially traumatic events at work. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Four key themes were identified from interviews: (1) some events are inherently more stressful than others; (2) pressure of organizational and interpersonal stressors; (3) convergence and divergence in cross-cultural coping strategies; and (4) preferring formal and confidential support.

Conclusions

There were differences in the nature of traumatic events and the ways of coping between the two cultures, but paramedics in both cultures had an agreement about their preference for individual and formal support. The results of this study may help inform the development of interventions and PTSD prevention programs for ambulance personnel.
The relationship between police contacts for drug use-related crime and future arrests, incarceration, and overdoses: a retrospective observational study highlighting the need to break the vicious cycle
Authors: Zhang Alice , Balles Joseph A. , Nyland Jennifer E. , Nguyen Thao H. , White Veronica M. , Zgierska Aleksandra E.
Published: June 2022

Background

Individuals with substance use disorder often encounter law enforcement due to drug use-related criminal activity. Traditional policing approaches may not be effective for reducing recidivism and improving outcomes in this population. Here, we describe the impact of traditional policing approach to drug use-related crime on future recidivism, incarceration, and overdoses.

Methods

Using a local Police Department (PD) database, we identified individuals with a police contact with probable cause to arrest for a drug use-related crime (“index contact”), including for an opioid-related overdose, between September 1, 2015, and August 31, 2016 (Group 1, N = 52). Data on police contacts, arrests, and incarceration 12 months before and after the index contact were extracted and compared using Fisher’s exact or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. County-level data on fatal overdoses and estimates of time spent by PD officers in index contact-related responses were also collected. To determine whether crime-related outcomes changed over time, we identified a second group (Group 2, N = 263) whose index contact occurred between September 1, 2017, and August 31, 2020, and extracted data on police contacts, arrests, and incarceration during the 12 months prior to their index contact. Pre-index contact data between Groups 1 and 2 were compared with Fisher’s exact or Mann–Whitney U tests.

Results

Comparison of data during 12 months before and 12 months after the index contact showed Group 1 increased their total number of overdose-related police contacts (6 versus 18; p = 0.024), incarceration rate (51.9% versus 84.6%; p = 0.001), and average incarceration duration per person (16.2 [SD = 38.6] to 50 days [SD = 72]; p < 0.001). In the six years following the index contact, 9.6% sustained a fatal opioid-related overdose. For Group 1, an average of 4.7 officers were involved, devoting an average total of 7.2 h per index contact. Comparison of pre-index contact data between Groups 1 and 2 showed similar rates of overdose-related police contacts and arrests.

Conclusions

The results indicated that the traditional policing approach to drug use-related crime did not reduce arrests or incarceration and was associated with a risk of future overdose fatalities. Alternative law enforcement-led strategies, e.g., pre-arrest diversion-to-treatment programs, are urgently needed.
Parent and implementer attitudes on gender-equal caregiving in theory and practice: perspectives on the impact of a community-led parenting empowerment program in rural Kenya and Zambia
Authors: Okelo Kenneth , Onyango Silas , Murdock Dawn , Cordingley Kaylie , Munsongo Kelvin , Nyamor George , Kitsao-Wekulo Patricia
Published: June 2022

Background

Fathers are often perceived to be mainly responsible for the provision of the family's economic needs. However, past studies have demonstrated that fathers’ involvement in parenting has great significance for the child’s holistic growth and development. Few studies have investigated fathers’ roles in the nurturing care of young children, particularly responsive care and stimulation, in sub-Saharan Africa. The study reported here was carried out as part of a larger study that sought to evaluate the effectiveness of the Moments That Matter (MTM) program in improving the nurturing care of young children in rural communities in Zambia and Kenya. The MTM program uses a parenting empowerment approach to promote bonding and interactions between caregivers and their children within the home, focusing on responsive care, early learning, and security and safety so that children reach their full developmental potential. Trained volunteers facilitated monthly primary caregiver support and learning groups and ECD home visits. Fathers were encouraged to participate in the home visits and to attend some of the group meetings on specific topics. The study reported in this paper aimed to establish the impact of the parenting empowerment program in promoting more gender-equal attitudes and practices on parenting among fathers (who were not the primary caregivers).

Methods

Qualitative data were collected at three time points (pre-intervention before the implementation began; mid-intervention after 6 months of implementation; and post-intervention, after 24 months). We conducted focused group discussions with primary caregivers (n = 72) and fathers (n = 24) with children below 3 years. In-depth interviews were conducted with ECD Promoters (n = 43) and faith leaders (= 20). We also conducted key informant interviews with the MTM program implementers (n = 8) and government officials (n = 5) involved in the program implementation. We employed thematic analysis to analyse the qualitative data.

Results

The findings showed that the MTM program resulted in improved gender-equal parenting attitudes and practices among mothers/other primary caregivers and fathers. Study participants reported that most fathers spent more time playing and interacting with their children and were more involved in household chores due to their participation in the MTM program.

Conclusion

The study findings provide evidence for policy formulation and a guide for implementation of policies that can influence changes in perceived gender roles in parenting.
Closed form solution for a semi-infinite crack moving in an infinite orthotropic material with a circular crack breaker under antiplane strain
Authors: Emenogu Ndubueze G. , Nnadi James N. , Ogbonna Nkem
Published: June 2022

This study investigates the influence of a circular crack breaker on mode-III deformation behavior of a semi-infinite crack in a homogeneous, elastic orthotropic material subjected to longitudinal shear loads. The Galilean transformation is employed to convert the governing wave equation to Laplace’s equation which is time independent, rendering the problem amenable to analysis within the realm of the classical theory of two-dimensional elasticity. Considering the geometrical configuration of the problem, the analytical solution of the problem is possible if the problem is transformed using the appropriate mapping function. Our construction of a holomorphic function that maps the circular hole into a straight line with the edge terminating at the origin is a novelty which enables the use of integral transform method to obtain an analytic solution of the displacement, leading to closed-form expression for mode-III stress intensity factor, $$K_{111}$$

K
111

. The asymptotic values of the fields are obtained and shown to depend on the radius of the crack breaker. A parametric study shows that, for a fixed loading interval, a crack breaker of larger radius leads to increased stress intensity factor.
Saudi Arabian students in postgraduate dental programs: Investigating factors associated with burnout
Authors: Asiri Amal
Published: June 2022

Background: Burnout related to emotional and physical study or work demands affects an individual’s performance and wellbeing. This study focused on Saudi Arabian dental residents studying in the United States and the United Kingdom who are faced with many challenges in the pursuit of a higher education degree. 

Methods: A survey including demographic and Maslach Burnout inventory (MBI) questions was distributed to assess this population’s level of burnout. The MBI has been widely used in the literature to assess three components of burnout: emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DEP), and (diminished) personal accomplishment (PA). Potential predictors of burnout level, tested for statistical significance, included: (1) country (US vs UK), (2) hours of work, (3) sponsorship status, (4) marital status (5) gender, and (6) prior work experience. 

Results: The number of participants from the UK was 29 and from the US was 64 (n=93). The total number of participants who completed the survey was 87. Using multiple regression analyses, those found to predict EE included hours of work, sponsorship status, and gender. Only gender was found to predict PA. None of the variables were predictive of DEP. Moreover, after controlling for the demographic variables, the country where studying did not help account for the level of burnout. 

Conclusion: In the literature, burnout was found to be prevalent among dental postgraduate students. This study suggests that Saudi Arabian dental residents experience high burnout due to emotional exhaustion when compared to other medical professionals. Moreover, Female residents are more likely to report experiencing burnout than their male counterparts. Limitations of the study, implications for practice and suggestions for further research are offered in the discussion.
Leveraging on digital technology for financial inclusion of women agripreneurs in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Vivian Chinelo Ugwuja , Peter Ayodeji Ekunwe
Published: June 2022

Background

Women are key players in agriculture, but they are under-resourced, particularly in terms of finance. Microfinance has long been recognized as the most effective method of financially empowering these women, but using the benefits of digital technology can help scale it up and ensure its long-term viability.

Methods

The study area was Southern Nigeria. Respondents were women agripreneurs (n=479), from six states. 239 women agripreneurs who accessed digital financial products and 240 women agripreneurs who did not access financial products participated in the survey in 2019.

Results

The tests for significant difference between income of participants and non-participants in digital finance indicated a T-value of 3.214 (P< 0.001), which implies that there was a significant difference in the income of those that are accessing digital financial products (DFPs) and those that are not accessing DFPs. The tests for significant difference between savings of participants and non-participants indicated a T-value of 2.479 (p<0.05), which also implies that there was a significant difference in the women agripreneurs’ savings for participants and non-participants in DFPs. Only 2.5% of  women agripreneurs are participating in micro-insurance in Southern Nigeria.

Conclusions

Women agripreneurs who are accessing digital financial products earned more income and saved more than those who are not accessing digital financial products. This implies that you are more advantaged in using digital finance in business. Micro-insurance is poorly accessed in Nigeria, and awareness of insurance products is moderately low. This study recommends that Central Bank of Nigeria should engage in more outreach programmes to enable all women in Nigeria access digital financial products because of its convenience and contributions to success in business. Insurance companies should capitalize on business models that incorporate mobile technologies in order to increase insurance penetration in rural areas.
Tecnología al servicio del proceso: especial referencia a la celebración de juicios telemáticos.
Authors: Rayón Ballesteros María Concepción
Published: June 2022

En este trabajo se analiza la implantación de la justicia telemática como consecuencia de la pandemia por Covid-19 y particularmente se hace referencia a la celebración de juicios por videoconferencia con los avances que ha supuesto, sus ventajas e inconvenientes y su relación con las garantías procesales necesarias.
Impact of preventive chemotherapy on transmission of soil-transmitted helminth infections in Pemba Island, United Republic of Tanzania, 1994–2021
Authors: Ame Shaali , Kabole Fatma , Nanai Alphoncina Masako , Mwinzi Pauline , Mupfasoni Denise , Ali Said Mohammed , Montresor Antonio
Published: June 2022

Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections cause significant morbidity in children and women of reproductive age. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends preventive chemotherapy (PC) of at-risk populations with anthelminthics to control these infections. Historically, STH are very intensively transmitted in Pemba Island (Zanzibar). A survey conducted in 1994 in 12 schools estimated a STH prevalence near to 100%. This extremely high prevalence induced the introduction of PC in the island; initially, however, PC was not regularly administered because of difficulties linked to drug procurement. A second STH survey, conducted in 2011, in 24 schools estimated a prevalence of STH of 89%; after this survey, PC was regularly administered until 2018. We conducted a survey in 2021 using the same method as that used in 2011. The prevalence of STH was evaluated at 80% (95% CI 78.1–81.5) and most of the STH cases were due to Trichuris trichiura. More than 32% (95% CI 30.3–34.0) of the children investigated had infections of moderate or heavy intensity. PC has been conducted for over 25 years in Pemba Island. However, despite its beneficial impact, both the prevalence and the intensity of STH infections remain high, and the intervention has been insufficient in controlling STH morbidity. This is probably due to a combination of irregular PC, climatic conditions favourable to STH transmission, the low sensitivity of T. trichiura to benzimidazoles, high population density and poor sanitation. Improvement of sanitation coverage remains a key measure to permanently reduce the prevalence and intensity of STH. Possible changes to the present PC approaches to better control STH in Pemba would be (i) to assure high coverage in all schools, (ii) to use mebendazole instead of albendazole given its better activity on T. trichiura and (iii) to use a combination of ivermectin and mebendazole to further increase anthelminthic efficacy on T. trichiura.
Urban air pollution and emergency department visits related to central nervous system diseases
Authors: Lukina Anna O. , Burstein Brett , Szyszkowicz Mieczysław
Published: June 2022

Ambient air pollution has been associated with adverse neurological health outcomes. Ambient pollutants are thought to trigger oxidative stress and inflammation to which vulnerable populations, such as elderly may be particularly susceptible. Our study investigated the possible association between concentrations of ambient air pollutants and the number of emergency department (ED) visits for nervous system disorders among people residing in a large Canadian city. A time-stratified case-crossover study design combining data from the National Ambulatory Care Reporting System (NACRS) and the National Air Pollution Surveillance (NAPS) between 2004 and 2015 was used. Two air quality health indices were considered in additional to specific pollutants, including carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Weather condition data were included in the models. ED visits with a discharge diagnosis were identified using ICD-10 codes (G00-G99). The analysis was stratified by sex and age, also by seasons. The associations were investigated in arrays organized as 18 strata and 15 time lags (in days) for each pollutant. Overall, 140,511 ED visits were included for the analysis. Most ED visits were related to episodic and paroxysmal diagnoses (G40-G47, 64%), with a majority of visits for migraines (G43, 39%). Among females, an increase of 0.1ppm ambient CO was associated with an increased risk of paroxysmal diagnoses at day 1 (RR = 1.019 (95%CI 1.004–1.033)), day 6 (1.024 (1.010–1.039)) and day 7 (1.022 (1.007–1.036). PM2.5 and SO2, and air quality indices were similarly associated with ED visits for episodic and paroxysmal disorders in days 6 and 7. Findings highlight that ambient air pollution is associated with an increased number of ED visits for nervous system disorders, particularly visits for paroxysmal diagnoses.
Oxygen uptake kinetics and ventilatory and metabolic parameters do not differ between moderate‐intensity front crawl and breaststroke swimming
Authors: Lomax Mitch , Royal Joshua T. , Kapus Jernej , Massey Heather , Saynor Zoe
Published: June 2022

Pulmonary oxygen uptake () kinetics have been well studied during land‐based exercise. However, less is known about kinetics during swimming exercise and comparisons between strokes is non‐existent. We aimed to characterize and compare the kinetics, ventilatory,e and metabolic response to constant velocity moderate‐intensity freely breathing front crawl (FC) and breaststroke (BR) swimming in a swimming flume. These two strokes reflect predominantly upper body versus lower body modes of swimming locomotion, respectively. Eight trained swimmers (4 females, 20 ± 1 years, 1.74 ± 0.06 m; 66.8 ± 6.3 kg) attended 5–6 laboratory‐based swimming sessions. The first two trials determined FC and BR and the ventilatory threshold (VT), respectively, during progressive intensity swimming to the limit of tolerance. Subsequent trials involved counterbalanced FC and BR transitions from prone floating to constant velocity moderate‐intensity swimming at 80% of the velocity at VT (vVT), separated by 30‐min recovery. Breath‐by‐breath changes in pulmonary gas exchange and ventilation were measured continuously using a snorkel and aquatic metabolic cart system. The ventilatory and metabolic responses were similar (p > 0.05) between strokes during maximal velocity swimming, however, vVT and maximal velocity were slower (p < 0.05) during BR . During moderate‐intensity swimming, kinetics, ventilatory and metabolic parameters were similar (p > 0.05) between strokes. In conclusion, when breathing ad libitum, kinetics during moderate‐intensity constant velocity swimming, and ventilatory and metabolic responses during moderate‐intensity and maximal velocity swimming, are similar between FC and BR strokes.
Determination of the degree of recrystallization of a microalloyed HSLA steel by using metallographic methods
Authors: Monschein S. , Kostwein N. , Ragger K. S. , Zügner D. , Fasching J. , Schnitzer R.
Published: June 2022

On the one hand, this work aims at describing the grain elongation of compressed samples of a microalloyed high-strength steel using appropriate parameters. On the other hand, the degree of recrystallization is to be determined based on the samples’ grain elongation. For this purpose, single-hit compression tests were performed with varying test parameter settings using a deformation dilatometer to generate samples characterized by various degrees of recrystallization. Three parameters were chosen to describe the grain elongation. It was found that the parameter defining the ratio length/ width of the original grain provides the highest sensitivity regarding changes in the grain elongation. Aiming at determining the degree of recrystallization, a critical grain elongation threshold value was determined below which it is assumed that a grain is recrystallized. The results show that choosing the right threshold value allows an automated determination of the degree of recrystallization of a microalloyed high-strength steel in the light microscope.
First records of three Pergamasinae species (Acari, Mesostigmata, Parasitidae) from Slovakia
Authors: Ondrejková Kamila , Fenďa Peter
Published: June 2022

We recorded three mite species, Pergamasus (Thenargamasus) instatutus Athias-Henriot, 1967, Pergamasus (Pergamasus) laminarius Witaliński, 1971 and Holoparasitus ampullaris Witaliński, 1994, from Slovakia for the first time. Mites of the genera Pergamasus Berlese, 1903 and Holoparasitus Oudemans, 1936 are predatory mites living mainly in a soil and a rotting organic matter of the Holarctic region with a centre of distribution in Europe. Till now, P. instatutus was recorded in Austria and Hungary, while P. laminarius and H. ampullaris were known only from Poland.
Procedures for Social Volunteers in Rehabilitating Patients with Mental Disorders in A Rural Community of Bandung
Authors: Rosyad Rifki , Naan Naan , Busro Busro
Published: June 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengeksplorasi upaya yang dilakukan oleh keluarga, masyarakat, dan pemerintah dalam mengatasi berbagai kasus gangguan jiwa masyarakat. Dengan menggunakan wawancara dan observasi semi terstruktur, data diperoleh dari 25 responden. Penyebab gangguan kesehatan jiwa terutama disebabkan oleh faktor psikososial atau eksternal. Dengan perawatan medis, pasien bisa lepas dari belenggu dan mulai bersosialisasi dengan masyarakat. Komunikasi sosial adalah salah satu cara yang paling efektif untuk merawat pasien untuk mengenali diri mereka sendiri, berhubungan kembali dengan orang lain, dan menjadi lebih sehat secara mental. Yang menjadi penggerak utama rehabilitasi sosial bagi penderita gangguan jiwa adalah para relawan yang membantu melancarkan berbagai kegiatan rehabilitasi. Temuan penelitian ini dapat memberikan informasi yang berharga untuk membantu meningkatkan pelayanan kesehatan masyarakat, khususnya bagi relawan, terutama di masyarakat pedesaan. Penelitian ini secara langsung akan memotivasi pemerintah untuk meningkatkan keberhasilan dalam mengatasi masalah sosial terkait gangguan jiwa.