bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ammianus pericarti sp. n. (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Tingidae), the first strictly Palaearctic representative of the genus with a key to the species of the Ammianus junodi group
Authors: LIS BARBARA , LIS JERZY A.
Published: June 2021

Ammianus pericarti sp. n., the first strictly Palaearctic representative of the genus, is described from Agadir (Morocco) as new to the science. The species is illustrated and compared to all its morphologically similar representatives of the Ammianus junodi group; a key to this species group is also provided. Moreover, A. vanderijsti (Schouteden, 1923) is reported for the first time from the Republic of South Africa.
A new species of Quedius Stephens in Zhejiang, China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Staphylinini)
Authors: MA WEN-JING , HU JIA-YAO
Published: June 2021

N/A
Variability and Sources of the Internal Wave Continuum Examined from Global Moored Velocity Records
Authors: Le Boyer Arnaud , Alford Matthew H.
Published: June 2021

Energy for ocean turbulence is thought to be transferred from its presumed sources (viz., the mesoscale eddy field, near-inertial internal waves, and internal tides) to the internal wave continuum, and through the continuum via resonant triad interactions to breaking scales. To test these ideas, the level and variability of the oceanic internal gravity wave continuum spectrum are examined by computing time-dependent rotary spectra from a global database of 2260 current meter records deployed on 1362 separate moorings. Time series of energy in the continuum and the three “source bands” (near-inertial, tidal, and mesoscale) are computed, and their variability and covariability examined. Seasonal modulation of the continuum by factors of up to 5 is seen in the upper ocean, implicating wind-driven near-inertial waves as an important source. The time series of the continuum is found to correlate more strongly with the near-inertial peak than with the semidiurnal or mesoscale. The use of moored internal-wave kinetic energy frequency spectra as an alternate input to the traditional shear or strain wavenumber spectra in the Gregg–Henyey–Polzin finescale parameterization is explored and compared to traditional strain-based estimates.
When Deaths Are Dehumanized: Deathcare During COVID-19 as a Public Value Failure
Authors: Zavattaro Staci M. , Entress Rebecca , Tyler Jenna , Sadiq Abdul-Akeem
Published: June 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic, which is still gripping the world, brought death front and center into many people’s lives. In the United States, however, some of the deaths were treated as “more tragic” than others given someone’s economic use value coupled with dehumanizing language. Using Debord’s Society of the Spectacle, this is understood as a public values failure when economic productivity eclipses public health and humanity. Introducing a conceptual framework, this article explores this death narrative and implores public administrators to think about death management in a humane framing.
Continuous hemadsorption with cytokine adsorber for severe COVID-19: A case series of 15 patients
Authors: Paisey Christopher , Patvardhan Chinmay , Mackay Michael , Vuylsteke Alain , Bhagra Sai Kiran
Published: June 2021

Background:

Hyperinflammation and cytokine release has been associated with severe Covid-19. Hemadsorption cartridges may have a potential role in treatment of cytokine storm associated with the development of severe Covid-19.

Methods:

We retrospectively examined the case records of patients with severe Covid-19 receiving adjunctive hemadsorption (HA) in our ICU. We analyzed inflammatory biomarkers pre- and post- HA.

Results:

Fifteen patients received HA during the study period. All were intubated, ventilated and required renal replacement therapy. 11/15 were supported on ECMO. Mean ferritin 2652 (±3286) ng/ml, mean CRP 154 (±92) mg/ml, median D-dimer 3071 (±2689) ng/ml, mean troponin 236 (±461) ng/L. We found significant difference in pre-and post- treatment ferritin 3622 ng/ml versus 1682 ng/ml ( p = 0.022), CRP 222 mg/ml versus 103 mg/ml ( p = 0.008, 95% CI 22.4–126.5), lactate 2 mmol/L versus 1.3 mmol/L ( p = 0.017), and procalcitonin 15.3 ng/ml versus 4.2 ng/ml ( p = 0.023). No significant difference in pre- and post- treatment IL-6 14 pg/ml versus 43 pg/ml ( p = 0.32), IL-10 3.4 pg/ml versus 2.6 pg/ml ( p = 0.31), IL1 β 0.37 pg/ml versus 0.77 pg/ml ( p = 0.75), TNF α 12.77 pg/ml versus 12.49 pg/ml ( p = 0.75), VIS 10.04 versus 6.01 ( p = 0.31, 95% CI 5.98–17.16) was seen.

Conclusions:

The use of HA as adjunctive treatment in a critically unwell group of COVID-19 patients lead to a reduction in ferritin, CRP, procalcitonin and lactate with no significant change in other parameters. The use of HA in the treatment of severe COVID-19 requires further larger randomized studies.
Cooperative guidance laws against highly maneuvering target with impact time and angle
Authors: Wang Zhikai , Fang Yangwang , Fu Wenxing , Wu Zihao , Wang Mingang
Published: June 2021

To address the issue that multiple missiles intercepting a highly maneuvering target simultaneously with desired angles, a novel cooperative guidance law based on the decoupled model in the line-of-sight (LOS) and normal LOS direction is proposed in LOS frame. However, there is control coupling in the two directions of the cooperative guidance model. In this article, we first decouple the guidance model and then separately design estimation decouple cooperative guidance law in two directions based on the decoupled model. The guidance law component in the LOS direction is designed with the integral sliding mode control and multi-agent consensus theory, where the combining disturbance is compensated by an adaptively estimated term. The guidance law component in the normal LOS direction is designed based on nonsingular terminal sliding mode control with fast power reaching law, and a nonlinear disturbance observer is introduced to estimate the combining disturbance. Then, the finite time convergence of time-to-go and LOS angle is proved. Finally, numerical simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed cooperative guidance law.
Health-Related Symptoms and Working Conditions on Vulnerability to Presenteeism Among Nurses in South Korea
Authors: Yi Jee-Seon , Kim Eungyung , Kim Hyeoneui
Published: June 2021

Presenteeism among nurses is reported to be higher than that of other professional workers, and affects one’s health and the safety of their patients. Therefore, study on correlation between complex working condition and presenteeism is needed among nurses. This study aimed to predict characteristics of high-risk groups for presenteeism among nurses. The analysis used data which generated 478 nurses who participated in the fifth Korean Working Conditions Survey (2017). This study built a complex samples logistic regression model and decision tree analysis. Presenteeism was significantly higher among those who experienced musculoskeletal pain, high emotional demands, discrimination, and psychological adverse social behavior at the workplace. Combined presence of psychological adverse social behavior and musculoskeletal pain was predicted presenteeism, and should be treated as groups with a high risk of presenteeism. Nurses should be aware of high-risk group for presenteeism and treat them as a priority group to manage.
Should It Stay or Should It Go? Developing an Enhanced SWOT Framework for Teaching Strategy Formulation
Authors: Lohrke Franz T. , Mazzei Matthew J. , Frownfelter-Lohrke Cynthia
Published: June 2021

Strategy educators have employed SWOT analysis for decades as a means of teaching strategy formulation to students. Despite this well-established practice, many scholars and practitioners have called for discontinuing it as a pedagogical tool for several reasons, including that traditional undergraduate students may lack the practical experience to employ SWOT correctly, the framework presents “messy” strategic problems as overly rational, or it represents as an ambiguous and/or atheoretical classification system. We suggest possible remedies for SWOT analysis problems that may help improve its usefulness and promote its continued use. After briefly reviewing its original formulation, current textbook descriptions, and frequent criticisms, we present a refined and enhanced SWOT framework, anchored in extant strategy research and learning theory. We then demonstrate the efficacy of this enhanced framework with examples and preliminary data. Our fundamental conclusion is that SWOT analysis, when properly employed, remains a useful overarching framework that, among other advantages, helps bridge the “theory versus practice” pedagogical debate on how best to teach strategy formulation.
Robotic radical cystectomy with concomitant implantation of 3-piece penile prosthesis: a one-step solution
Authors: Izzo Alessandro , Quarto Giuseppe , Grimaldi Giovanni , Castaldo Luigi , Muscariello Raffaele , Franzese Dario , Del Prete Paola , Ferro Matteo , Barberio Daniela , Bolognini Ida , Bianchi Attilio Antonio Montano , Autorino Riccardo , Perdonà Sisto
Published: June 2021

Radical cystectomy (RC) remains a highly morbid urologic procedure, and erectile dysfunction (ED) represents a significant burden for bladder cancer survivors. While inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) offers a definitive treatment option for post-RC ED, the hostile postoperative anatomy of RC patients poses some technical challenges for IPP implantation. We report the case of a 54-year-old male with high grade bladder cancer who was managed with a robotic-assisted RC with Bricker ileal conduit urinary diversion and simultaneous implantation of a 3-piece IPP. Operative time was 310 min (230 min for the RC and ileal conduit portion, 80 min for IPP implantation). Estimated blood loss was 300 ml. Postoperative course was regular. The patient was discharged home on postoperative day 6. A robotic RC with concomitant IPP implantation can be offered as “one-step” solution to bladder cancer male patients. This approach can potentially offer the advantage of better outcome in terms of sexual function, while minimizing surgical risks, ultimately improving the quality of life of these patients.
Hepatitis and tuberculosis testing are much less common than HIV testing among adults in Kisumu, Kenya: results from a cross-sectional assessment
Authors: Tunnage Joshua , Yates Adam , Nwoga Chiaka , Sing’oei Valentine , Owuoth John , Polyak Christina S. , Crowell Trevor A. ,   for the RV393 Study Group, Adongo Rachel , Aguttu Rachel , Akala Hosea , Ake Julie , Bondo Michael , Broach Erica , Busisa Christine , Copeland Nate , Cowden Jessica , de Souza Mark , Eller Leigh Anne , Gogo Milicent , Hassen Zebiba , Hu Dale , Imbach Michelle , Juma Anne , Kasera Oscar , Li Qun , Mbuchi Margaret , Milazzo Mark , Modjarrad Kayvon , Ngonda Eric , Nyariro Jacob , Ochola Jew , Ohore Roseline , Okumu Thomas , Omondi Mary , Omondi Timothy , Ooro Linnah , Orando Beatrice , Otieno June , Owira Victorine , Oyugi Roselyn , Robb Merlin , Rono Eric , Tran Chi , Turley Hannah
Published: June 2021

Background

Kenya has a high burden of HIV, viral hepatitis, and tuberculosis. Screening is necessary for early diagnosis and treatment, which reduces morbidity and mortality across all three illnesses. We evaluated testing uptake for HIV, viral hepatitis, and tuberculosis in Kisumu, Kenya.

Methods

Cross-sectional data from adults aged 18–35 years who enrolled in a prospective HIV incidence cohort study from February 2017 to May 2018 were analyzed. A questionnaire was administered to each participant at screening for study eligibility to collect behavioral characteristics and to assess prior testing practices. Among participants without a history of previously-diagnosed HIV, multivariable robust Poisson regression was used to estimate prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for factors potentially associated with HIV testing in the 12 months prior to enrollment. A hierarchical model was used to test for differential access to testing due to spatial location.

Results

Of 671 participants, 52 (7.7%) were living with HIV, 308 (45.9%) were female, and the median age was 24 (interquartile range 21–28) years. Among 651 (97.0%) who had ever been tested for HIV, 400 (61.2%) reported HIV testing in the past 6 months, 129 (19.7%) in the past 6–12 months, and 125 (19.1%) more than one year prior to enrollment. Any prior testing for viral hepatitis was reported by 8 (1.2%) participants and for tuberculosis by 51 (7.6%). In unadjusted models, HIV testing in the past year was more common among females (PR 1.08 [95% CI 1.01, 1.17]) and participants with secondary education or higher (PR 1.10 [95% CI 1.02, 1.19]). In the multivariable model, only secondary education or higher was associated with recent HIV testing (adjusted PR 1.10 [95% CI 1.02, 1.20]). Hierarchical models showed no geographic differences in HIV testing across Kisumu subcounties.

Conclusions

Prior HIV testing was common among study participants and most had been tested within the past year but testing for tuberculosis and viral hepatitis was far less common. HIV testing gaps exist for males and those with lower levels of education. HIV testing infrastructure could be leveraged to increase access to testing for other endemic infectious diseases.
Factors affecting healthcare pathways for chronic lung disease management in Vietnam: a qualitative study on patients’ perspectives
Authors: Nguyen Thu-Anh , Pham Yen Ngoc , Doan Nhung Phuong , Nguyen Thao Huong , Do Toan Thanh , Van Vu Giap , Marks Guy B. , McKinn Shannon , Negin Joel , Bernays Sarah , Fox Greg J.
Published: June 2021

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma rank among the leading causes of respiratory morbidity, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This qualitative study aimed to explore the healthcare pathways of patients with chronic respiratory disease, and factors influencing their ability to access healthcare in Vietnam, where COPD and asthma are prevalent.

Methods

We conducted 41 in-depth interviews among patients, including 31 people with COPD, eight with asthma and two with asthma-COPD overlap syndrome. Participants were recruited at provincial- or national-level health facilities in two urban and two rural provinces in Vietnam. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Patients’ healthcare pathways were complex and involved visits to multiple health facilities before finally obtaining a definitive diagnosis at a provincial- or national-level hospital. Access to healthcare was affected considerably by participants’ limited knowledge of their respiratory conditions, the availability of social support, especially from family members, the costs of healthcare as well as health system factors (including the coverage of public health insurance, the distance to health facilities, and attitude of healthcare providers).

Conclusion

The study demonstrated the need for improved access to timely diagnosis and treatment of chronic lung disease within the lower level of the health system. This can be achieved by enhancing the communication skills and diagnostic capacity of local healthcare workers. Health education programmes for patients and caregivers will contribute to improved control of lung disease.
The deep vein thrombosis of lower limb after total hip arthroplasty: what should we care
Authors: Yu Xinyan , Wu Yingying , Ning Rende
Published: June 2021

Background

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of lower limb is one of the common complications after total hip arthroplasty(THA), we aimed to evaluate the potential risk factors of DVT of lower limb in patients with THA, to provide insights into the management of THA.

Methods

Patients who underwent THA in our hospital from January 1, 2017 to November 30, 2020 were included. The personal characteristics and clinical data of DVT and no-DVT patients were compared and analyzed. Logistic regression analyses were perfomed to identify the potential risk factors of DVT in patients with THA.

Results

A total of 182 THA patients were included, the incidence of DVT of lower limb in patients with THA was 19.78 %. There were significant differences in the age, BMI, diabetes, number of replacement, duration of surgery, type of prosthesis and duration of days in bed between DVT and no-DVT patients(all P < 0.05). And there were no significant differences in the gender, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, preoperative D-dimer, type of anesthesia and anticoagulant drugs use(all P > 0.05). Logistic regression analysis indicated that age > 70y(OR4.406, 95 %CI1.744 ~ 6.134), BMI ≥ 28(OR2.275, 95 %CI1.181 ~ 4.531), diabetes(OR3.949, 95 %CI1.284 ~ 5.279), bilateral joint replacements(OR2.272, 95 %CI1.402 ~ 4.423), duration of surgery ≥ 120 min(OR3.081, 95 %CI1.293 ~ 5.308), cemented prosthesis(OR2.435, 95 %CI1.104 ~ 4.315), and duration of days in bed > 3 days(OR1.566, 95 %CI1.182 ~ 1.994) were the risk factors of DVT of lower limb in patients with THA.

Conclusions

DVT in the lower limb after THA is common, and its onset is affected by many factors. In clinical work, attention should be paid to identify the risk factors for DVT and targeted interventions are highlighted to prevent the postoperative DVT.
Advancing discussion of ethics in mixed methods health services research
Authors: Stadnick Nicole A. , Poth Cheryl N. , Guetterman Timothy C. , Gallo Joseph J.
Published: June 2021

Background

To describe the ethical issues and experiences of scientists conducting mixed methods health services research and to advance empirical and conceptual discussion on ethical integrity in mixed methods health research.

Methods

The study was conducted with 64 scholars, faculty and consultants from the NIH-funded Mixed Methods Research Training Program (MMRTP) for the Health Sciences. This was a cross-sectional study. Survey results were analyzed using descriptive statistics to characterize responses and open coding to summarize strategies about eight ethical mixed methods research issues. Respondents completed an online survey to elicit experiences related to eight ethical issues (informed consent, confidentiality, data management, burden, safety, equitable recruitment, communication, and dissemination) and strategies for addressing them.

Results

Only about one-third of respondents thought their research ethics training helped them plan, conduct, or report mixed methods research. The most frequently occurring ethical issues were participant burden, dissemination and equitable recruitment (> 70% endorsement). Despite occurring frequently, < 50% of respondents rated each ethical issue as challenging. The most challenging ethical issues were related to managing participant burden, communication, and dissemination. Strategies reported to address ethical issues were largely not specific or unique to mixed methods with the exception of strategies to mitigate participant burden and, to a lesser degree, to facilitate equitable recruitment and promote dissemination of project results.

Conclusions

Mixed methods health researchers reported encountering ethical issues often yet varying levels of difficulty and effectiveness in the strategies used to mitigate ethical issues. This study highlights some of the unique challenges faced by mixed methods researchers to plan for and appropriately respond to arising ethical issues such as managing participant burden and confidentiality across data sources and utilizing effective communication and dissemination strategies particularly when working with a multidisciplinary research team. As one of the first empirical studies to examine mixed methods research ethics, our findings highlight the need for greater attention to ethics in health services mixed methods research and training.
Comparison of SDSG and CARDS classifications for L5/S1 lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis: an independent inter- and intra-observer agreement study
Authors: Sun Zhengwang , Xu Chongqing , Yin Mengchen , Yan Wangjun
Published: June 2021

Background

Lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS) has been a common disease that makes increasing patients to suffer from different degrees of low back pain and radicular symptoms. The Spinal Deformity Study Group (SDSG) and the Clinical and Radiographic Degenerative Spondylolisthesis (CARDS) systems are commonly used to classify the disease, and help to make a more detailed treatment plan. The objective of this study is to compare the reliability and reproducibility of SDSG and CARDS classifications, and to explore their clinical application value.

Methods/design

All 117 patients with L5/S1 lumbar DS were enrolled. Five experienced spine surgeons were selected to assess DS with SDSG and CARDS systems. Kappa (K) value was used to check the coefficient consistency for multi-factor and assess the inter- and intra-observer agreement. After 12 weeks, the analysis was repeated.

Results

The inter-observer reliability and intra-observer reproducibility of SDSG system were substantial with K values of 0.704 and 0.861, while those of CARDS system were substantial with values of 0.620 and 0.878.

Conclusion

SDSG system had better inter-observer reliability in comparison with CARDS system, and though CARDS system is more intuitive and simpler, it is more likely to produce deviations when using it. Both SDSG and CARDS systems show substantial agreement and have great significance in surgical strategy of L5/S1 lumbar DS, they can be widely used in clinical practice.
Correction to: First multilocus sequence typing (MLST) of Giardia duodenalis isolates from humans in Romania
Authors: Costache Carmen , Kalmár Zsuzsa , Colosi Horațiu Alexandru , Baciu Alina Mihaela , Opriş Răzvan Vlad , Györke Adriana , Colosi Ioana Alina
Published: June 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Convergence in public health expenditure across the Sub-Saharan African countries: does club convergence matter?
Authors: Traoré Ousmane
Published: June 2021

Background

Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries that currently face enormous healthcare challenges have implemented national health policies focusing on regional or international health commitments. These health commitments generally promote new healthcare financing policies (e.g., health insurance, user fee exemption and results-based financing) with the objective of providing ever-larger population cohorts with human capital and better health in particular. To achieve this, governments must involve themselves more fully in their respective healthcare sectors through the mobilisation of public funding.

Objective

This paper aims to examine convergence in health expenditure throughout SSA. The findings of club convergence will allow a robust comparison of health indicators between countries and will be suitable for the adjustment of health policies to foster the efficiency of such policies at the regional and/or country level. Such findings could also help with the conception and implementation of health policies at the regional level.

Methods

We used the methodology of convergence analysis based on dynamic factor modelling leading to the logt regression to test for full convergence, club convergence and club clustering of health expenditure on a balanced panel of 44 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa spanning the period from 2000 to 2016.

Results

Overall, our results do not support the hypothesis that all SSA countries converge to a single equilibrium state regarding public health expenditure. When testing for club convergence, the results highlight eight convergence clubs and one group of diverging countries. Indeed, performing the club clustering algorithm reveals the existence of three convergence clubs and the diverging group. The three clubs consist of 12, 14 and 14 members, respectively, where convergence is found to occur among different regional economic organisations.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that SSA governments should increase spending on healthcare in order to align their healthcare systems with a global convergence model. To foster the convergence to a single equilibrium state in public health expenditure, attention could be paid to strengthening integration within the various regional economic organisations and to the coordination and integration of healthcare policies within and across convergence clubs throughout SSA.
The spike glycoprotein genes of porcine epidemic diarrhea viruses isolated in China
Authors: Wang Pei-Hua , Li Ya-Qian , Pan Yuan-Qing , Guo Yan-Yan , Guo Fan , Shi Rui-Zhu , Xing Li
Published: June 2021

The porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) causes a highly contagious disease in pigs, which is one of the most devastating viral diseases of swine in the world. In China, PEDV was first confirmed in 1984 and PEDV infections occurred sporadically from 1984 to early 2010. From late 2010 until present, PEDV infections have swept every province or region in China. In this study, we analyzed a total of 186 full-length spike genes and deduced proteins of all available complete genomes of PEDVs isolated in China during 2007–2019. A total of 28 potential recombination events were identified in the spike genes of PEDVs in China. Spike gene recombination not only expanded the genetic diversity of PEDVs in the GII genogroup, but also resulted in the emergence of a new evolutional branch GI-c during 2016–2018. In addition, comparative analysis of spike proteins between GI-a prototype virulent CV777 and GII strain AJ1102 reveals that the amino acid variations could affect 20 potential linear B cell epitopes, demonstrating a dramatic antigen drift in the spike protein. These results provide a thorough view of the information about the genetic and antigenic diversity of PEDVs circulating in China and therefore could benefit the development of suitable strategies for disease control.
Throughput of distributed queueing-based LoRa for long-distance communication
Authors: Wu Wei , Wang Wennai , Wang Bin , Song Rongfang
Published: June 2021

LoRa, due to its advantage of long-range communication capability, is promising for Internet of Things (IoT) and space-air-ground communications. However, the conventional MAC protocol used with LoRa is classified as an Aloha-based algorithm, which leads to drastic decrease in throughput when a huge amount of end-devices try to access the network. To achieve stable and high throughput of LoRa, we propose a design to combine the distributed queueing (DQ) and in-band-full-duplex (IBFD) technologies. The usage of DQ mechanism is benefit for fast collision resolution, while the IBFD-enabled gateway helps to reduce the heavy control overhead of DQ. The designs of access procedure and frame structure are discussed in detail. The outage probability and average throughput are evaluated under imperfect self-interference cancelation. Also, a mathematical programming method is developed to optimize the spreading factor and code rate. Numerical results show that our proposal gains an extra enhancement of 1.83-fold in throughput.
Aboodh transform and the stability of second order linear differential equations
Authors: Murali Ramdoss , Selvan Arumugam Ponmana , Park Choonkil , Lee Jung Rye
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we introduce a new integral transform, namely Aboodh transform, and we apply the transform to investigate the Hyers–Ulam stability, Hyers–Ulam–Rassias stability, Mittag-Leffler–Hyers–Ulam stability, and Mittag-Leffler–Hyers–Ulam–Rassias stability of second order linear differential equations.
Urban-rural disparities in wife-beating attitude among married women: a decomposition analysis from the 2017 Senegal Continuous Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Zegeye Betregiorgis , Shibre Gebretsadik , Ahinkorah Bright Opoku , Keetile Mpho , Yaya Sanni
Published: June 2021

Background

Globally, intimate partner violence is one of the most common forms of gender-based violence, and wife beating is one component of intimate partner violence, with the problem being more severe among women living in rural settings. Little is known about the factors that explain the urban-rural disparity in the prevalence of wife beating attitude in Senegal. In this paper, we aimed to decompose the urban-rural disparities in factors associated with wife beating attitude among married women in Senegal.

Methods

Data were derived from the 2017 Senegal Continuous Demographic and Health Survey. We used the Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition method to decompose and explain the variation in the prevalence of disagreement to wife beating between urban and rural areas in Senegal.

Results

The results show that 48.9% of married women in Senegal disagreed with wife-beating. About 69% of urban women disagreed with wife beating, but only 36% of rural women disagreed with wife beating. About 68.7% of women in the sample reported that they disagreed to wife beating by their husbands for burning food and nearly 50% of women reported that they disagreed with wife beating when they refuse to have sex with their husbands. About 86% of the urban-rural disparities in disagreement with wife beating are explained in this study. Economic status (45.2%), subnational region (22.4%), women’s educational status (13.3%), and husband’s educational status (10.7%) accounted for 91.6% of the disparities.

Conclusions

The study shows urban-rural disparities in the prevalence of wife-beating attitude (disagreement with wife beating) and this disfavored rural residents. We suggest the need for the government of Senegal to consider pro-rural equity strategies to narrow down the observed disparities. Moreover, socioeconomic empowerment and attitudinal changing interventions using existing socio-cultural institutions as platforms can be used to deliver such interventions.
Hypoglycemic and antioxidative activities of ethanol seed extract of Hunteria umbellate (Hallier F.) on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Ogunlana Olubanke O. , Adetuyi Babatunde O. , Rotimi Miracle , Esalomi lohor , Adeyemi Alaba , Akinyele Julie , Ogunlana Oluseyi E. , Adetuyi Oluwatosin A. , Adebisi Oluwaseun A. , Opata Edward K. , Baty Roua S. , Batiha Gaber El-Saber
Published: June 2021

Background

Diabetes, a global cause of mortality in developing countries is a chronic disorder affecting the metabolism of macromolecules and has been attributed to the defective production and action of insulin characterized by persistent hyperglycemic properties. This global disorder harms organs of the body such as the liver, kidney and spleen. Medicinal plants such as Hunteria umbellate have been shown to possess hypoglycemic, antioxidative and anti-diabetic properties owing to the high concentration of active phytochemical constituents like flavonoids and alkaloids.

The present study seeks to evaluate the hypoglycemic activities of ethanolic seed extract of Hunteria umbellate on streptozotocin-induced diabetes rats.

Methods

Thirty (30) female experimental rats were randomly divided into five groups with six rats per group and were administered streptozotocin (STZ) and Hunteria umbellate as follows. Group 1 served as control and was given only distilled water, group 2 rats were administered 60 mg/kg STZ; Group 3 was administered 60 mg/kg STZ and 100 mg/kg metformin; group 4 rats were administered 60 mg/kg STZ and 800 mg/kg Hunteria umbellate, group 5 rats 60 mg/kg STZ and 400 mg/kg Hunteria umbellate. The fasting blood glucose level of each rat was measured before sacrifice. Rats were then sacrificed 24 h after the last dose of treatment.

Results

The results showed that Hunteria umbellate significantly reversed STZ-induced increase in fasting blood glucose and increase in body and organs weight of rats. Hunteria umbellate significantly reversed STZ-induced decrease in antioxidant enzyme in liver, kidney and spleen of rats. Hunteria umbellate significantly reversed STZ-induced increase in oxidative stress markers in liver, kidney and spleen of rats.

Conclusion

Collectively, our results provide convincing information that inhibition of oxidative stress and regulation of blood glucose level are major mechanisms through which Hunteria umbellate protects against streptozotocin-induced diabketes rats.
Modeling of strain and filtration properties of a semi-finished leather product
Authors: Amanov A. , Khurramov S. R. , Bahadirov G. A. , Abdukarimov A. , Amanov T. Y.
Published: June 2021

A study on deformation and filtration properties of a leather semi-finished product after chrome tanning are presented. The analytical dependences of compressive load on compressive (recovery) strain and moisture content of a leather semi-finished product are obtained. The empirical dependences of hydraulic gradient on filtration rates are determined for various compression ratios of the leather semi-finished product. It was revealed that with an increase in compressive load and moisture content of the leather semi-finished product, the compressive deformation increases. The shoulder section is subject to the greatest deformation, then the belly section and the least deformation is observed in the butt section. A linear relationship has been established between the hydraulic gradient and the rate of moisture filtration through the leather semi-finished product in the directions perpendicular and parallel to its surface.

Graphical abstract
Closed-loop surface-related multiple estimation with full-wavefield migration-reconstructed near offsets for shallow water
Authors: Zhang Dong , Verschuur Dirk Jacob (Eric)
Published: June 2021

Reliably separating primary and multiple reflections in a shallow-water environment (i.e., 50–200 m water depth) still remains a challenge. The success of previously published closed-loop surface-related multiple estimation (CL-SRME) depends heavily on the data coverage, that is, the near-offset reconstruction. Therefore, we have adopted the integrated framework of CL-SRME and full-wavefield migration (FWM). Multiples recorded in the data are capable of helping infill the acquisition imprint of the FWM image. With this image as a strong constraint, we are able to reconstruct the data at near offsets, which is essential for better primary and multiple estimation during CL-SRME. FWM applied in a nonlinear way can avoid the negative influences from the missing data and, at the same time, bring in more physics between primaries and multiples. The FWM image of the top part of the subsurface is also used to back project the information from multiples to primaries with the physical constraint that all of this information belongs to the same earth model, provided that a good description of the source wavefield and a reasonable velocity model are available. Our integrated framework first reconstructs near offsets via the closed-loop imaging process of FWM and then feeds the complete reconstructed data to CL-SRME for better primary and multiple estimation. Good performance is demonstrated on 2D synthetic and field data examples in a challenging shallow-water environment.
Διαστολική λειτουργία αριστερής κοιλίας και στεφανιαία μικροκυκλοφορία σε ασθενείς υπό εξωνεφρική κάθαρση
Authors: Γκίρδης Ιωάννης
Published: June 2021

Σκοπός: Η ανίχνευση πιθανών διαφορών στους δείκτες διαστολικής λειτουργίας της αριστερής κοιλίας και στην υπερηχοκαρδιογραφικά υπολογιζόμενη εφεδρεία στεφανιαίας ροής (CFR) μεταξύ ασθενών υπό αιμοκάθαρση (HD) και υπό περιτοναϊκή κάθαρση (PD), καθώς και ο προσδιορισμός των συσχετίσεων μεταξύ διαστολικής λειτουργίας, μάζας της αριστερής κοιλίας και CFR σε αυτούς τους ασθενείς. Υλικό και μέθοδοι: Σε αυτήν τη συγχρονική μελέτη παρατήρησης, μετά από διαλογή 157 ασθενών υπό μακροχρόνια εξωνεφρική κάθαρση, εισήχθησαν 43 ασθενείς (21 υπό HD, 22 υπό PD, μέση ηλικία 56 έτη, 46,5% γυναίκες, μέσος χρόνος σε εξωνεφρική κάθαρση 24 μήνες). Κριτήρια αποκλεισμού ήταν το κλάσμα εξώθησης της αριστερής κοιλίας < 50%, η στεφανιαία νόσος, οι σοβαρές βαλβιδοπάθειες, οι μυοκαρδιοπάθειες, αρρυθμίες και σοβαρή πνευμονοπάθεια. Πραγματοποιήθηκε ένα πλήρες διαθωρακικό υπερηχοκαρδιογράφημα, υπολογίστηκε ο δείκτης μάζας της αριστερής κοιλίας (LVMI) και προσδιορίστηκε το διαστολικό πρότυπο της αριστερής κοιλίας. Κατά τη διάρκεια έγχυσης υψηλής δόσης διπυριδαμόλης, έγινε εκτίμηση της CFR χρησιμοποιώντας διαθωρακική υπερηχογραφία με παλμικό Doppler στο άπω τμήμα του προσθίου κατιόντα κλάδου και ακολούθησε αξιολόγηση της κινητικότητας των τοιχωμάτων της αριστερής κοιλίας. Αποτελέσματα: Η συχνότητα σοβαρής υπερτροφίας της αριστερής κοιλίας (LVH) ήταν σημαντικά υψηλότερη στην HD ομάδα (38,1% έναντι 4,5%, p = 0,009). Οι δύο ομάδες δε διέφεραν ως προς τους μεμονωμένους διαστολικούς δείκτες, παρουσίαζαν, όμως, σημαντική διαφορά στη συχνότητα της διαστολικής δυσλειτουργίας βαθμού ΙΙ (42,9% στην HD έναντι 4,5% στην PD ομάδα, p = 0,004). Ουδείς ασθενής είχε περιοριστικό πρότυπο. Δεν παρατηρήθηκε διαφορά στη συχνότητα της αρτηριακής υπέρτασης και του σακχαρώδη διαβήτη μεταξύ των ασθενών με και χωρίς σοβαρή LVH, ούτε και μεταξύ των ασθενών με βαθμού ΙΙ και με καλύτερο του βαθμού ΙΙ διαστολικό πρότυπο. Οι ασθενείς με λειτουργική fistula είχαν υψηλότερο LVMI (137,5 ± 33,6 έναντι 100,6 ± 29,7 g/m2, p = 0,001) πιο συχνά σοβαρή LVH (50% έναντι 9,7%, p = 0,008) και επίσης πιο συχνά προχωρημένη διαστολική δυσλειτουργία (58,3% έναντι 9,7%, p = 0,002). Η μέση τιμή της CFR ήταν παρόμοια στην HD και την PD ομάδα (2,25 ± 0,65 έναντι 2,36 ± 0,76, p = 0,635), όπως και ο αριθμός των ασθενών με CFR < 2 (38,1% έναντι 27,3%, p = 0,449). Η CFR ήταν χαμηλότερη στους ασθενείς με διαστολική δυσλειτουργία βαθμού ΙΙ (1,87 ± 0,43 έναντι 2,44 ± 0,72, p = 0,023) και στους διαβητικούς (1,70 ± 0,59 έναντι 2,39 ± 0,68, p = 0,04). Ο LVMI σχετιζόταν αρνητικά με τη CFR (r = – 0,308, p = 0,045). Ουδείς ασθενείς παρουσίαζε τοιχωματικές διαταραχές κινητικότητας στο δυναμικό υπερηχοκαρδιογράφημα με διπυριδαμόλη. Συμπεράσματα: Οι ασθενείς σε HD είχαν πιο συχνά σοβαρή LVH και πιο προχωρημένη διαστολική δυσλειτουργία σε σύγκριση με τους ασθενείς σε PD, ανεξάρτητα από την παρουσία υπέρτασης και διαβήτη. Η CFR δε βρέθηκε να διαφέρει μεταξύ των HD και PD ασθενών, ωστόσο ήταν σημαντικά χαμηλότερη στους διαβητικούς και στους ασθενείς με ψευδοφυσιολογικό διαστολικό πρότυπο.
Η θεραπευτική σχέση στη γνωσιακή συμπεριφοριστική θεραπεία
Authors: Efstathiou Giorgos
Published: June 2021

The article describes the distinctive features of the therapeutic relationship in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and the ways of dealing with problems in the therapeutic interaction. The development of the way that the therapeutic relationship is understood within the context of cogntive behavioral therapy is presented, from the initial view that the therapeutic relationship is a necessary but not sufficient condition in order to achieve therapeutic change, to the modern view that the therapeutic change is produced by the therapeutic techniques, as well as the therapeutic relationship. The role of the therapist and the features of the therapeutic alliance in CBT are described, central among which is collaborative empiricism and Socratic questioning. The difficulties in the therapeutic relationship and the ways that can be addressed are discussed in the context of the related concepts of resistance, of ruptures in the therapeutic alliance and of transference and countertransference. The rationale regarding boundaries to the therapeutic relationship is discussed. In conclusion, in CBT the emphasis on the therapeutic relationship is not so central as in other therapeutic models and the relationship is integrated with techniques, although there is ongoing effort to enhance and expand the understanding of the therapeutic interaction.  Nonetheless the quality of the relationship is not inferior to that of other treatment models and the therapeutic change in CBT is attributed equally to the implementation of techniques and relationship factors.
Η θεραπευτική συμμαχία: ορισμοί, αναστοχασμοί και θεραπευτικές προεκτάσεις
Authors: Apostopoulou Angelika , Giovazolias Theodoros
Published: June 2021

The present literature review aims to offer an in-depth examination and critical evaluation of the concept of the therapeutic alliance, as it has been historically unfolded in psychotherapy theory, research and practice. The construct of the alliance holds particular theoretical and practical significance for counselling psychologists, who are expected to demonstrate an understanding of the therapeutic relationship and alliance as conceptualised in different models (HCPC, 2015), as well as the ability to engage in relational practice (BPS, 2015). The critical literature review therefore opens with an examination of the concept of the therapeutic alliance as defined and conceptualised in the major schools of psychotherapy. Core alliance measures are also presented and critically evaluated in relation to their methodological rigour and usefulness in alliance research and practice. The relationship between the therapeutic alliance and outcome is critically reflected upon, whilst giving thorough consideration to therapist, client and interactive factors impacting the development and maintenance of the therapeutic alliance, thus possibly mediating and/ or moderating the relationship between alliance and treatment outcome. Contemporary re-conceptualisations and critiques of alliance theory and research are in turn thoroughly examined and critically discussed. Taking into account the primacy of the therapeutic relationship in Counselling Psychology (BPS, 2005), the literature review concludes with a presentation of the therapeutic implications of alliance theory and research for practitioner psychologists in general and counselling psychologists in particular, irrespective of their therapeutic orientation, in order to enhance their therapeutic skills and efficacy.
Polish Psychiatric Association consensus statement on non-pharmacological methods in the treatment of negative symptoms of schizophrenia
Authors: Samochowiec Jerzy , Szulc Agata , Bieńkowski Przemysław , Dudek Dominika , Gałecki Piotr , Heitzman Janusz , Wojnar Marcin , Wichniak Adam
Published: June 2021

Stanowisko zostało przygotowane przez zespół ekspertów powołanych przez Zarząd Główny Polskiego Towarzystwa Psychiatrycznego, składający się z osób z wieloletnim doświadczeniem w leczeniu osób z zaburzeniami psychicznymi. W ocenie uwzględniono analizę baz danych piśmiennictwa oraz informacje zawarte w metaanalizach tych danych za lata 2010-2020. Publikacje były w języku angielskim i niemieckim, polskim, interwencje przeprowadzone na osobach dorosłych. Porównano skuteczność niefarmakologicznych metod leczenia objawów negatywnych schizofrenii z efektami innego leczenia/ leczenia skojarzonego/ z grupą bez takich interwencji.
Formułując zalecenia eksperci przeanalizowali źródłowe dane pod kątem możliwości ich zastosowania w Polsce. Uwzględniono aktualne zalecenia towarzystw naukowych i analizę piśmiennictwa dotyczące leczenia schizofrenii z dominującymi objawami negatywnymi. Uwzględniono te pozycje, które zawierały porównanie grupy badanej pod kontem interwencji niefarmakologicznych i wzięto pod uwagę tylko przypadki leczone farmakologicznie z podziałem na leczenie standardowe i z dodatkową interwencją. Wyniki pogrupowano na 7 rozdziałów:
1. Psychoedukacja, 2. Psychoterapia (indywidualna, grupowa, rodzinna), 3.Rehabilitacja psychiatryczna, 4. Trening inteligencji emocjonalnej, trening umiejętności społecznych, trening uważności, 5. Remediacja/rehabilitacja poznawcza, trening funkcji poznawczych, 6. Skuteczność kliniczna aktywności fizycznej, aktywizacji behawioralnej i treningu metapoznawczego, 7.Inne metody rehabilitacji (w tym metody biologiczne).
Rekomendacje zostały przedyskutowane przez ekspertów i zaakceptowane przez Zarząd Główny Polskiego Towarzystwa Psychiatrycznego i po uwzględnieniu zgłoszonych uwag – przyjęte jako stanowisko Towarzystwa z zaleceniem ich stosowania w leczeniu osób chorych na schizofrenię w Polsce.
Nikolaus von Myra in Verehrung und Brauch nördlich der Alpen
Authors: Dinzelbacher Peter
Published: June 2021

In kompakter Übersicht wird mit vielen konkreten Beispielen gezeigt, wie Nikolaus von Myra auch nördlich der Alpen zu einem vielverehrten heiligen Patron (zunächst namentlich der Seeleute, dann der Kinder) wurde. Seine Gestalt wurde in der volksläufigen Devotion mit vorchristlichen Schreckfiguren assoziiert; Nikolaus und Krampus sanken jedoch bis in die Gegenwart zu rein folkloristischen Gestalten ab, die nur noch als Erziehungsinstanz für kleine Kinder fungieren
Slovenian 19TH Century literary responses to the Poetry of Lord Byron Byronism on the the Slovene Territory in the 19th century
Authors: Maver Igor
Published: June 2021

The article examines the influence of lord Byron's poetry through the translations into the Slovenian language in the 19th century. Byron is analyzed through the translations and cultural mediation of the poets dr. France Prešeren, Jovan Vesel Koseski and Josip Stritar, who all, particularly Prešeren, contributed to the development of the Slovenian Romantic Revival movement and Slovenian literature in its own right within the Habsburg and later the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. Lord Byron's poetry enabled Slovenian poets and translators to articulate their own national/political identification within the multinational empire.
L’equidistanza ironica tra comico e tragico nella Mandragola di Machiavelli
Authors: Orsitto Fulvio
Published: June 2021

This article analyzes The Mandrake, a theater play written by Machiavelli which, on the one hand has many aspects in common with other writings by the Florentine author and, on the other, offers plenty of fresh and innovative nuances. Indeed, if this comedy deals with some of Machiavelli’s archetypical elements (such as Fortune and Virtue), one should also consider that the narration unfolds on a background that is neither necessarily historical, nor tragic and not even merely comical. As a consequence, this essay intends to apply to The Mandrake a category that may seem foreign to Machiavelli’s universe. A category developed centuries after the Florentine writer and influenced by authors and thinkers such as Pirandello and Bergson, but also by the likes of an erudite scholar and writer such as Umberto Eco. A category called ‘irony’, based on the definition offered by Vladimir Jankélévitch. The purpose of this article is to emphasize how the peculiarities of the ironic process prove to be useful in shedding some light on some aspects of this play, which cannot be analyzed as thoroughly by the classic interpretations usually applied to Machiavelli’s texts. In fact, the category of irony – being situated halfway between comedy and tragedy – offers new interpretations that allow us to fill the gap between the comical and the tragic aspects that characterize Machiavelli’s The Mandrake.
Secuencia y delimitación en el procesamiento textual alemán: modelo conexionista.
Authors: Castro Moreno Carmen Cayetana
Published: June 2021

In order to simulate human speech, connectionism has developed several techniques for representation of frames and scripts. These models are able to solve some of the shortcomings of classical cognitive systems. Specifically, classical systems are unable to control when a chunk of knowledge has to be activated and what part of the chunk should be more activated. Instead, connectionist systems can use degrees in mobilizing to try this case. However, connectionism has also some limitations if considered as models of human mind, but they also are a point of interest to the application in the prosecution textual. Besides, we examinate the plausibility of any of these approaches used in computers and their implications in our own connectionist model.