bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An annotated checklist of the vascular plants of Taita Hills, Eastern Arc Mountain
Authors: Watuma Benjamin Muema , Kipkoech Solomon , Melly David Kimutai , Ngumbau Veronicah Mutele , Rono Peninah Cheptoo , Mutie Fredrick Munyao , Mkala Elijah Mbadi , Nzei John Mulinge , Mwachala Geoffrey , Gituru Robert Wahiti , Hu Guang-Wan , Wang Qing-Feng
Published: March 2022

Taita Hills forests are an ecological island within the Tsavo plains and are the northern-most part of the Eastern Arc Mountains in southeast Kenya. They are highly fragmented forests embedded in a mosaic of human settlements and farms on the slopes and hilltops. Despite their intensive degradation, they exhibit a high degree of plant diversity and endemism, and therefore are regarded as a biodiversity hotspot. In spite of their distinct importance to the biodiversity of the region as well as supporting the livelihoods of the surrounding communities, floristic studies in these hills have been finite. Through repetitive floral expeditions, herbarium records from the East African Herbarium (EA), Global Biodiversity Information (GBIF), and the Integrated Digitized Biocollections (iDigbio) databases, as well as plant lists from literature and monographs, we provide a comprehensive checklist of 1594 taxa representing 159 families, 709 genera, 1530 species, 39 subspecies, 27 varieties, and 2 hybrids. Out of these, 75 are endemic or near-endemic, 59 are exotic, and 83 are listed as either endangered or near endangered as evaluated in the IUCN Redlist. Zehneria tuberifera G.W.Hu & Q.F.Wang, a new species to science, which has previously been described, was also discovered from the Ngangao forest fragment. Information on the habit(s), habitat(s), and altitudinal range of each taxon is provided in this study. This checklist is an updated inventory of the vascular plants of the Taita Hills. It confirms the high plant diversity of the hills and provides a clear baseline for strategic conservation and sustainable management of plant resources and diversity under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
Sharing taxonomic expertise between natural history collections using image recognition
Authors: Greeff Michael , Caspers Max , Kalkman Vincent , Willemse Luc , Sunderland Barry , Bánki Olaf , Hogeweg Laurens
Published: March 2022

Natural history collections play a vital role in biodiversity research and conservation by providing a window to the past. The usefulness of the vast amount of historical data depends on their quality, with correct taxonomic identifications being the most critical. The identification of many of the objects of natural history collections, however, is wanting, doubtful or outdated. Providing correct identifications is difficult given the sheer number of objects and the scarcity of expertise. Here we outline the construction of an ecosystem for the collaborative development and exchange of image recognition algorithms designed to support the identification of objects. Such an ecosystem will facilitate sharing taxonomic expertise among institutions by offering image datasets that are correctly identified by their in-house taxonomic experts. Together with openly accessible machine learning algorithms and easy to use workbenches, this will allow other institutes to train image recognition algorithms and thereby compensate for the lacking expertise.
WOMAC Meaningful Within-patient Change: Results From 3 Studies of Tanezumab in Patients With Moderate-to-severe Osteoarthritis of the Hip or Knee
Authors: Conaghan Philip G. , Dworkin Robert H. , Schnitzer Thomas J. , Berenbaum Francis , Bushmakin Andrew G. , Cappelleri Joseph C. , Viktrup Lars , Abraham Lucy
Published: March 2022

Objective.

To define meaningful within-patient change (MWPC) in the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC).

Methods.

Data were analyzed separately from 3 phase III clinical trials (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02697773, NCT02709486, NCT02528188) of tanezumab, a novel treatment intended for the relief of signs and symptoms of moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis (OA), administered subcutaneously every 8 weeks. Patients with moderate-to-severe OA of the hip or knee completed the WOMAC and patient global assessment of OA (PGA-OA) at regular timepoints. A repeated measures longitudinal model with change in WOMAC Pain, Physical Function, or Stiffness domain score as the outcome and change in PGA-OA as the anchor was used to establish MWPC for WOMAC domains.

Results.

In the 3 studies, there were 688, 844, and 2948 subjects available for analyses, respectively. Analysis showed that a linear relationship between changes in WOMAC domains and changes in PGA-OA was supported and justified. Moreover, the relationships between these changes were very similar for 2 trials and close for the third. The estimated MWPC for the 3 WOMAC domains were from 0.84–1.16 (0–10 numerical rating scale) and from 12.50–16.23%, depending on study and domain, that corresponded to a 1-category change on PGA-OA. For a 2-category change those values were from 1.68–2.31 and from 25.01–32.46%, respectively.

Conclusion.

These results establish MWPCs for WOMAC domains, at the individual patient level, for patients with moderate-to-severe OA of the hip or knee. [ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02697773, NCT02709486, and NCT02528188]
Frequency of Symptomatic Adverse Events in Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Exploratory Online Survey
Authors: Hazlewood Glen S. , Schieir Orit , Bykerk Vivian , Mujaab Kamso , Tugwell Peter , Wells George , Richards Dawn , Proulx Laurie , Hull Pauline M. , Bartlett Susan J.
Published: March 2022

Objective

To generate initial data on the frequency and effect of symptomatic adverse events (AEs) associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) drug therapy from the patient perspective.

Methods

We conducted an exploratory online survey asking patients with RA to indicate whether they currently or had ever experienced the 80 different symptomatic AEs included in the Patient-Reported Outcomes of the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (PRO-CTCAE). Results were summarized to report their frequency, and regression models were used to estimate their associations with RA medication use and overall bother.

Results

The 560 patients who completed the survey and reported taking ≥ 1 RA medication (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs [DMARDs], steroids, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs [NSAIDs]), had a mean disease duration of 8 years, and were on a wide range of DMARDs. The number of symptomatic AEs experienced in the past 7 days was none (6%), 1–10 (28%), 11–20 (28%), and > 20 (38%). Overall, most participants reported that side effects bothered them somewhat (28%), quite a bit (24%), or very much (15%). In multivariable regression analyses, current prednisone and NSAID use were associated with the greatest number of current side effects (26 and 22, respectively). Many of the strongest associations between current symptomatic AEs and medication use aligned with known side effect profiles.

Conclusion

In this exploratory online survey, patients with RA reported frequent symptomatic AEs with their medications that are bothersome. Further work is needed to develop and validate a measure for use in patients with rheumatic disease.
Association of Health Literacy and Numeracy With Lupus Knowledge and the Creation of the Lupus Knowledge Assessment Test
Authors: Maheswaranathan Mithu , Eudy Amanda M. , Barr Ann Cameron , Howe Catherine , Doss Jayanth , Sadun Rebecca E. , Criscione-Schreiber Lisa G. , Sun Kai , Perrin Eliana M. , Bailey Stacy C. , Hastings Susan N. , Clowse Megan E.B. , Rogers Jennifer L.
Published: March 2022

Objective.

Limited health literacy and numeracy are associated with worse patient-reported outcomes and higher disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but which factors may mediate this association is unknown. We sought to determine the association of health literacy and numeracy with SLE knowledge.

Methods.

Patients with SLE were recruited from an academic center clinic. Participants completed validated assessments of health literacy (Newest Vital Sign [NVS]; n = 96) and numeracy (Numeracy Understanding in Medicine Instrument, Short Version [S-NUMI]; n = 85). They also completed the Lupus Knowledge Assessment Test (LKAT), which consists of 4 questions assessing SLE knowledge that were determined through consensus expert opinion for their wide applicability and importance related to self-management of the disease. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression modeling were used to analyze the results.

Results.

In our SLE cohort (n = 125), 33% (32/96) had limited health literacy and 76% (65/85) had limited numeracy. The majority correctly identified that hydroxychloroquine prevented SLE flares (91%); however, only 23% of participants correctly answered a numeracy question assessing which urine protein to creatinine (UPC) ratio was > 1000 mg/g. The mean LKAT score was 2.7 out of 4.0. Limited health literacy, but not numeracy, was associated with lower knowledge about SLE as measured by the LKAT, even after adjusting for education.

Conclusion.

Patients with SLE with limited health literacy had lower knowledge about SLE. The LKAT could be further refined and/or used as a screening tool to identify patients with knowledge gaps. Further work is needed to improve patients’ understanding of proteinuria and investigate whether literacy-sensitive education can improve care.
Central Obesity in Axial Spondyloarthritis: The Missing Link to Understanding Worse Outcomes in Women?
Authors: Maguire Sinead , Wilson Fiona , Gallagher Phil , O’Shea Finbar
Published: March 2022

Objective.

To determine (1) the prevalence of central obesity in axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) and its effect on disease-related outcomes and (2) how this differs between sexes.

Methods.

Data were extracted from the Ankylosing Spondylitis Registry of Ireland. Patients with physical measurements for the calculation of anthropometric measures were included. BMI and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were used to compare classifications of obesity. Comparison analyses based on sex and central obesity were carried out. Multivariate analysis examined the effects of these factors on the following patient-reported outcomes: the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI), the Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life (ASQoL) questionnaire, and the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ).

Results.

In total, 753 patients were included in the analysis. Of these patients, 29.6% (n = 223) were classified as obese based on their BMI, and 41.3% (n = 311) were classified as centrally obese according to the WHR. The prevalence of central obesity was significantly higher among women with axSpA compared to men (71.6% vs 29.9%, P < 0.01). Central obesity had a clear effect on patient outcomes, regardless of sex. Presence of central obesity was associated with significantly worse BASFI scores (P < 0.01), HAQ scores (P < 0.01), and ASQoL questionnaire scores (P = 0.01), with a nonsignificant trend toward worse BASDAI scores (P = 0.07).

Conclusion.

There was a high prevalence of central obesity as assessed by the WHR in axSpA, most notably among women with axSpA. This modifiable comorbidity was significantly associated with worse quality of life, greater impairment of functional ability, and a trend toward worse disease activity. Regular use of the WHR to screen for central obesity as part of an axSpA assessment would provide an opportunity for prompt identification and intervention for at-risk patients.
Measurement Properties of the Polymyalgia Rheumatica Activity Score: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Bolhuis Thomas E. , Nizet Lizanne E.A. , Owen Claire , den Broeder Alfons A. , van den Ende Cornelia H.M. , van der Maas Aatke
Published: March 2022

Objective.

To perform a COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN)-based systematic literature review of measurement properties of the Polymyalgia Rheumatica Activity Score (PMR-AS).

Methods.

PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL were broadly searched. English full-text articles, with (quantitative) data on ≥ 5 patients with PMR using the PMR-AS were selected. Seven hypotheses for construct validity and 3 for responsiveness, concerning associations with erythrocyte sedimentation rate, physical function, quality of life, clinical disease states, ultrasound, and treatment response, were formulated. We assessed the structural validity, internal consistency, reliability, and measurement error, or the hypotheses on construct validity or responsiveness of the PMR-AS based on COSMIN criteria.

Results.

Out of the identified 26 articles that used the PMR-AS, we were able to use 12 articles. Structural validity, internal consistency, construct validity, and responsiveness were assessed in 1, 2, 8, and 3 articles, respectively. Insufficient evidence was found to confirm structural validity and internal consistency. No data were found on reliability or measurement error. Although 60% and 67% of hypotheses tested for construct validity and responsiveness, respectively, were confirmed, there was insufficient evidence to meet criteria for good measurement properties.

Conclusion.

While there is some promising evidence for construct validity and responsiveness of the PMR-AS, it is lacking for other properties and, overall, falls short of criteria for good measurement properties. Therefore, further research is needed to assess its role in clinical research and care.
L’évaluation des capacités parentales en contexte de maltraitance selon la théorie de l’attachement : réflexions à propos de l’article de consensus de Forslung, et al . : « La prise en compte des liens d’attachement au tribunal : protection de l’enfance et décisions de résidence des enfants dans les situations de séparation parentale »
Authors: Cyr Chantal
Published: March 2022

Une retombée positive de la recherche prolifique sur l’attachement est l’augmentation des connaissances dans ce domaine, mais une retombée négative est la désinformation et l’utilisation prématurée de ces connaissances par la communauté clinique. L’article de consensus de Forslung, et al. (2020) met bien en lumière les mauvaises conceptions qui circulent à propos des notions d’attachement et fournit des recommandations pour une meilleure application de ces notions par les tribunaux, notamment lors de l’évaluation des capacités parentales (ECP) en contexte de maltraitance. Le présent commentaire se veut une réflexion additionnelle à propos des enjeux à considérer lorsqu’il s’agit d’utiliser la théorie de l’attachement et ses études dans le cadre d’ECP menées par les services de la protection de l’enfance. Des pistes de réflexions sont avancées pour les chercheurs et les professionnels. Nous soulignons le besoin de développer des ECP fondées sur des données scientifiques et qui inclut une évaluation du potentiel du parent à améliorer sa sensibilité parentale. Aussi, pour une meilleure transmission des notions d’attachement et la pérennité des meilleures pratiques dans ce domaine, nous recommandons la création de communautés de pratique centrées sur l’attachement et qui rassemblent les chercheurs et les professionnels.
Le droit de l’enfant à ses attachements
Authors: Rosenczveig Jean-Pierre
Published: March 2022

Tout enfant est copropriétaire de sa filiation et doit voir ses affiliations prises en compte, ses attachements respectés. Quand consacrera-t-on le droit de l’enfant à son histoire ? Quand en arrivera-t-on à consacrer les responsabilités à l’égard de l’enfant plutôt que d’exercer le pouvoir sur l’enfant ? Répondre à ces questions suppose qu’enfin on considère véritablement l’enfant comme une personne
L’Allemagne après les élections de 2021
Authors: Stark Hans
Published: March 2022

Les élections législatives allemandes de l’an dernier marquent une rupture de grande ampleur. Le recul des chrétiens-démocrates est historique et la coalition qui s’est mise en place, inédite. Dans quelle mesure les compromis entre les trois partis qui la composent seront-ils durables ? Du fait d’une divergence de vues sur l’Europe, dans quelle mesure la relation franco-allemande sera-t-elle affectée ?
La figure de l’homme providentiel
Authors: Garrigues Jean , Roussellier Nicolas
Published: March 2022

L’histoire de France est riche d’« hommes providentiels » comme Napoléon Bonaparte ou Charles de Gaulle, qui se présentent comme extérieurs au « système ». C’est en partie la nostalgie d’un pouvoir exécutif fort. La présidentialisation du système politique, associée à l’affaiblissement des partis, conduit à valoriser une telle figure. Mais cette tendance est contrebalancée par l’aspiration croissante à une démocratie plus directe.
L’Église réformée par ses « périphéries »
Authors: Odinet François
Published: March 2022

La prise de conscience de l’ampleur des abus de tous ordres commis au sein de l’Église catholique conduit à envisager une profonde réforme de celle-ci. Le processus synodal en cours peut y aider. À l’encontre de l’« entre soi », le pape François propose une « Église en sortie ». Cela ne fait que reprendre la manière de faire de Jésus qui va à la rencontre des « périphéries » de son peuple. Plusieurs lieux d’Église se mettent désormais à l’écoute de la voix des victimes, des plus pauvres ou des plus oubliés. Cela conduit à repenser l’organisation ministérielle de l’Église.
L’indifférence religieuse : une catégorie désuète ?
Authors: Donegani Jean-Marie
Published: March 2022

L’indifférence religieuse serait le stade ultime du processus de sécularisation. C’est moins la marque d’un dédain envers la question religieuse que la conviction qu’elle dépasse toute appartenance particulière. La reconnaissance d’une pluralité d’options s’accompagne d’un primat de l’expérience personnelle et d’une recherche d’authenticité.
Une anthropologie de la figuration
Authors: Descola Philippe , Anger Violaine , Damour Franck
Published: March 2022

Dans un nouveau livre majeur sur Les formes du visible , Philippe Descola propose différentes manières de figurer et d’habiter le monde à partir d’une approche classificatoire rigoureuse qui fait suite à son exposition « La fabrique des images » et qui constitue comme un prolongement de Par-delà nature et culture . Au cours de cet entretien, il s’explique sur son projet et notamment sur l’apport du christianisme au « naturalisme ».
The Scandal of Violent Death: Science, the State, and the War of Justifications in Coronavirus Public Policy
Authors: O’Connor Martin
Published: March 2022

Sur la base d’un suivi d’articles d’actualité de janvier 2020 à novembre 2021, cet article propose une analyse des controverses autour des réponses des politiques publiques à la pandémie de SRAS-CoV-2. Il examine, principalement dans le contexte européen (et en s’appuyant sur The Irish Times et Le Monde comme sources d’information quotidiennes), les perceptions des vulnérabilités induites par le COVID-19 depuis le « confinement » de mars 2020, les rôles préconisés pour la science et la technologie (y compris les vaccins et la transformation numérique), la nature des dilemmes qui se posent dans différentes sphères, et la crise de légitimité de l’État moderne par rapport aux différentes notions de droits et libertés économiques, religieuses et civiles. Les sociétés européennes sont fracturées par un ensemble de lignes de faille qui séparent les formes consolidées et émergentes de « superpouvoirs » (l’État, Big Pharma, Big Data) des besoins et des désirs exprimés, à travers les protestations et les populismes, pour une myriade de « petites » libertés. Des suggestions sont formulées sur la manière dont les « déficits d’être » exprimés peuvent être interprétés en termes sociologiques, et abordés dans la politique de la « nouvelle normalité » de la vie avec le coronavirus. Note  : Comme contribution au numéro thématique « Crise COVID-19 et démocratie en Europe » de L’Europe en formation, cet article aborde notamment les thèmes suivants signalés dans l’appel : la résilience des démocraties européennes face à la crise du COVID-19 ; la séparation des pouvoirs en circonstances de crise ; les mouvements populistes et la crise du COVID-19 ; l’impact de l’expertise scientifique sur l’élaboration des politiques.
Donner à rire
Authors: Le Breton David
Published: March 2022

Le rire en commun, s’il ne vise pas à meurtrir un tiers, traduit l’élégance de vivre dans le partage d’un rien qui fait qui fait toute la valeur de l’existence. Pure dissipation du temps, non dans l’échange d’informations ou de biens mais dans la célébration du lien. Lubrifiant du lien social mais néanmoins outil de contrôle dans un contexte conflictuel ou imprégné de tensions latentes informulables autrement, le rire amène à une facilitation des relations et à un renforcement des liens de l’entre soi. Il est toujours relieur, même s’il lui arrive de prendre des cibles extérieures pour favoriser le consensus.
Les Trois Mousquetaires ou le don réitéré du plaisir
Authors: Anselmini Julie , Schopp Claude
Published: March 2022

Les Trois Mousquetaires – cette histoire de dons – est présenté par Dumas et donné aux lecteurs comme offrande . Mais celle-ci se réitère aussi et se rejoue chaque fois que l’œuvre, sous une forme ou sous une autre, est adaptée, retransmise, réactualisée et intégrée dans un nouveau circuit de sens. Dumas lui-même, en promouvant une vision de la littérature comme création collective et comme mythe, a relégué au second plan des notions littéraires telles que l’auteur unique, le génie, le caractère intouchable du texte. Ses conceptions et sa pratique généreuse proposent une autre approche de la littérature, offerte à tous les vents de la postérité et ouverte à des appropriations multiples, l’auteur premier (existe-t-il en définitive ?) dût-il se trouver dépossédé.
« Cette Estelle dont je vous parlerai peu était l’héroïne du roman dont je ne vous parlerai pas »
Authors: Solomon Nathalie
Published: March 2022

Les réflexions contemporaines sur le programme narratif présentent le récit comme une promesse qui doit s’accomplir sous peine de décevoir un lecteur amené à formuler des hypothèses sur ce qu’il est en droit d’attendre. Les travaux sur la réception décrivent le processus narratif comme une forme de contrat plus ou moins respecté. Ce qui pose la question de la déception de celui à qui un récit promis est refusé, et celle du don – est-il ou non possible de raconter hors de cet accord tacite, le texte peut-il être pure gratuité, sans nécessité ni détermination ? La période romantique abonde en textes virtuels en marge de récits fondés et nécessaires.
« L’hôtesse parfaite » : Mrs Dalloway, le don et la fin du laissez-faire
Authors: Colesworthy Rebecca
Published: March 2022

Cet article propose, en partant de la publication contemporaine en 1925 du célèbre roman de Viriginia Woolf, Mrs. Dalloway, et du texte phare de Marcel Mauss, L’Essai sur le don , de repenser les intersections historiques et conceptuelles entre la littérature moderniste anglo-américaine, le discours économique et les théories du vingtième siècle sur l'échange de dons. Il soutient que Mauss a conçu de manière unique ce que John Maynard Keynes a appelé la « fin du laissez-faire » en termes de changement dans notre pensée collective sur les dons et les échanges. Par sa caractérisation à la fois sympathique et critique de Clarissa Dalloway, Woolf ﬁgure ce changement en termes d'émergence d'une éthique féminine de l'hospitalité. En établissant en outre le rôle central de la littérature dans la promotion de cet ethos, elle anticipe également, tout en l'historicisant et en le genrant, le structuralisme de Lévi-Strauss, l'un des principaux héritiers de Mauss.
Comment les récits tissent nos vies
Authors: Robertson Fabien
Published: March 2022

Pourquoi raconter des histoires ? Pourquoi relever certains événements plutôt que d’autres ? Et comment ? Le principe des récits les plus ordinaires et de révéler et de produire des liens, entre le présent et le passé, entre l’actuel et le possible, entre les vivants et les morts. Ainsi les histoires s’efforcent-elles de reprendre ce qui fut pour retisser l’expérience humaine. Mais si elles paraissent travailler à rebours, leur objet premier est de trouver les éléments nouveaux et imprévisibles de l’action humaine. Aussi sont-elles autant de dons, par lesquels la vie sociale se reprend et se relance.
Aerobic exercise training combined with probiotic supplement improves antioxidant defence of cardiomyocytes by regulating Nrf2 and caspase3 gene expression in type 2 diabetic rats
Authors: Maherinia H. , Peeri M. , Azarbayjani M.A. , Delfan M.
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of four weeks of aerobic exercise training combined with probiotic supplementation on mRNA levels of Nrf-2 and caspase-3 genes, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in rats with type 2 diabetes. 40 male Wistar diabetic rats were divided into five groups: healthy placebo control group (NC), diabetic control group without supplement (DC), diabetic control group with supplement (SDC), diabetic aerobic training group without supplement (DT), and diabetic aerobic training group with probiotic supplement (SDT). Each training group performed training five days per week for four weeks and each session of training consisted of 30 min running on a treadmill with an intensity of 65-60% of maximum speed. Simultaneously, rats were fed probiotic supplements. Serum glucose, SOD, and TAC were analysed. The real-time PCR technique was used to determine the gene expression of Nrf-2 and caspase-3. Both aerobic exercise training and probiotic supplementation interactively reduced caspase 3 gene expression, increased Nrf-2 gene expression and enhanced TAC in the left ventricle of diabetic rats. Also, the reduction of caspase-3 mRNA in the left ventricle was more effective in the SDT group than in other diabetic groups. There was no interaction effect on SOD. However, a simultaneous effect of training and supplementation was observed on increasing TAC levels when compared to the DC group. Pearson’s correlation showed that the heart weight gain in the SDT group occurred only by decreasing the expression of the caspase-3 gene. Based on these results, probiotics combined with exercise training can be a strategy for improving the antioxidant defence system and preventing risk factors of diabetic cardiomyocytes, especially cell death and myocardial ischemia.
Agriculture and tourism: economic evaluation of sustainable land management
Authors: Sgroi Filippo ,   Department of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Sciences, University of Palermo; Palermo 90128, Italy
Published: March 2022

The ways in which the agricultural landscape has been used and managed by man has resulted in substantial changes over time in relation to the economic changes and social needs of local communities. In recent times, thanks to the multifunctional vision of agriculture, growing interest has focused on the recreational aspects of the landscape as a function of its usability. This interest derives both from its importance, highlighted by numerous studies on this aspect, and from its link with rural tourism. The latter phenomenon is growing rapidly and is capable of triggering important processes of development and local growth. In this context, the present study highlights some preliminary considerations on the relationships that, from the point of view of sustainable local development, exist between possible types of tourism and methods of landscape management. To this end, first explore some features of the agricultural landscape and their possible economic evaluations. The study shows that an agricultural landscape in which man is present with agricultural activity, and where the service sector offers adequate opportunities for receptivity, it is possible to create growth and development paths for the local economy. The empirical analysis carried out in the Madonie shows that the resilience of the agricultural landscape is strictly connected to the presence of man in the territory.
Existence results of nontrivial solutions for a new $ p(x) $-biharmonic problem with weight function
Authors: Guo Wei ,   School of Data Science and Information Engineering, Guizhou Minzu University, Guiyang 550025, China, Yang Jinfu , Zhang Jiafeng
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we study a class of $ p(x) $-biharmonic problems with negative nonlocal terms and weight function. Using the mountain pass theorem and the Ekeland's variational principle, at least three solutions are obtained. We also give some comments on the existence of infinite many solutions for our problem when the nonlinear term is a general function.
Hyers-Ulam-Rassias stability of cubic functional equations in fuzzy normed spaces
Authors: Lu Lingxiao ,   College of Mathematics Science, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215009, China, Wu Jianrong
Published: March 2022

In this paper, two cubic functional equations are shown to be equivalent, Hyers-Ulam-Rassias stability of them is proved under some suitable conditions by the fixed point method in fuzzy normed spaces. Moreover, the fuzzy continuity of the solution of the functional equation is discussed.
Factors Affect the Sorption and Degradation of and Rostenedione in Three Typical Agricultural Soils From Different Regions
Authors: Wang Daidyi , Zhang Fengsong
Published: March 2022

Androstenedione is a natural steroid hormone and endocrine disruptor. Batch and laboratory microcosm experiments and studies were conducted to investigate its adsorption and degradation in three soils. The Freundlichparameter Kf of androstenedione in the tested soils. Cattle manure dissolved organic matter (DOM) at 20 mg C·L−1 decreased androstenedione sorption in the three soils Degradation rate positively correlated with content clay and silt, while negatively with content of sand under same conditions. Soil moisture significantly affected the persistence of androstenedione in red soil and black soil, whereas there was no significant difference in alluvial soil. Androstenedione half-life increased, ranging from 2.04d to 17.33d under soil temperatures of 20°C,10°C, and freeze-thaw cycles between +10°C and−10°C. Androstenedione degradation was inhibited in black soil at -10°C. Androstenedione degradation significant affected by soil texture and environmental factors, manure DOM inhibitedandrostenedione sorption in three soils and can increase its transport to water sources.
Measuring Acuity and Pediatric Critical Care Nursing Workload by Using ICU CAMEO III
Authors: Connor Jean Anne , LaGrasta Christine , Cerrato Benjamin , Porter Courtney , Gauvreau Kimberly , Morrill Diana , Fortkiewicz Justine , Mechler Mallory , Donnellan Amy , Kaduc Alexandra , Whalen Ruby , Shields Ashlee , Bruno Michelle , Jarden Angela , Dey Anne , Hickey Patricia A.
Published: March 2022

Background

The Intensive Care Unit Complexity Assessment and Monitoring to Ensure Optimal Outcomes (ICU CAMEO III) acuity tool measures patient acuity in terms of the complexity of nursing cognitive workload.

Objective

To validate the ICU CAMEO III acuity tool in US children’s hospitals.

Methods

Using a convenience sample, 9 sites enrolled children admitted to pediatric intensive care units (ICUs). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize patient, nursing, and unit characteristics. Concurrent validity was evaluated by correlating the ICU CAMEO III with the Therapeutic Intervention Scoring System-Children (TISS-C) and the Pediatric Risk of Mortality III (PRISM III).

Results

Patients (N = 840) were enrolled from 15 units (7 cardiac and 8 mixed pediatric ICUs). The mean number of ICU beds was 23 (range, 12-34). Among the patients, 512 (61%) were diagnosed with cardiac and 328 (39%) with noncardiac conditions; 463 patients (55.1%) were admitted for medical reasons, and 377 patients (44.9%) were surgical. The ICU CAMEO III median score was 99 (range, 59-163). The ICU CAMEO complexity classification was determined for all 840 patients: 60 (7.1%) with level I complexity; 183 (21.8%) with level II; 201 (23.9%), level III; 267 (31.8%), level IV; and 129 (15.4%), level V. Strong correlation was found between ICU CAMEO III and both TISS-C (ρ = .822, P < .001) and PRISM III (ρ = .607, P < .001) scores, and between the CAMEO complexity classifications and the PRISM III categories (ρ = .575, P = .001).

Conclusion

The ICU CAMEO III acuity tool and CAMEO complexity classifications are valid measures of patient acuity and nursing cognitive workload compared with PRISM III and TISS-C in academic children’s hospitals.
Humanitarian logistics challenges in disaster relief operations: A humanitarian organisations’ perspective
Authors: Negi Saurav
Published: March 2022

Background: The number of disasters affecting the world has climbed dramatically over the previous decade, from around 220 per year in the mid-1990s to around 350–400 per year now. The rising frequency of natural calamities encouraged the author to conduct a study on humanitarian logistics (HL) and its role in mitigating the consequences of any disaster incidence. Thus, this study aims to outline the issues and challenges affecting HL in disaster relief.Objectives: The purpose of this study is to emphasize the critical role of HL in disaster management and to identify the issues that humanitarian organizations (HO) face while managing their logistics and supply chains during disaster relief operations.Method: The study employed a qualitative approach to investigate the problems affecting HL and supply chains by conducting a literature analysis on disaster management/disaster supply chain. The literature related to HL was reviewed, analyzed, and accordingly, the findings are presented.Results: The results of a thorough evaluation of the basic and contemporary literature on HL identified various challenges, reinforcing the necessity for additional research in HL operations to better the present situation. Additionally, it will lay the groundwork for various stakeholders such as humanitarian/non-profit organizations, governments, and policymakers to plan and develop appropriate solutions.Conclusion: As natural disasters occur often throughout the world; it is critical to handle logistical operations properly and efficiently during disaster relief operations. While none of the disaster situations can be prevented, their impact can be minimized by adequate preparation and response during humanitarian logistical operations.
A blatant disregard of Section 6 (1) of the Constitution of South Africa by higher education institutions and language authorities: An onomastic discrepancy
Authors: Rakgogo Tebogo J. , Zungu Evangeline B.
Published: March 2022

The primary focus of this article is the onomastic discrepancies that are considered a blatant disregard of Section 6 (1) of the Constitution of South Africa (Act No. 108 of 1996). The article employs a qualitative research approach where text analysis is used, focusing on constitutional documentation, legislative frameworks on language-related matters and higher education policy documentations, as well as language policy documentation from the selected 10 South African universities that offered Sepedi as a first language or conversational module. It is found that there is a constitutional disregard by competent organisations such as universities, financial institutions, Google and language authorities (such as Pan South African Language Board, Sesotho sa Leboa National Language Body and Sesotho sa Leboa National Lexicography Unit), since most of the policies are inconsistent with Section 6 (1) of the South African Constitution, 1996. In summary, the article records that the policies supersede the Constitution, since the language name ‘Northern Sotho/Sesotho sa Leboa’ is the most used name to refer to the official standard language rather than its counterpart, Sepedi.
The elevation of Sepedi from a dialect to an official standard language: Cultural and economic power and political influence matter
Authors: Rakgogo Tebogo J. , Zungu Evangeline B.
Published: March 2022

This study explored the role played by economic, cultural, and political power and influence when a particular dialect was elevated to the status of an official standard language. This was a qualitative study that employed text analysis where journal articles, dissertations, theses, academic books and Parliamentary Joint Constitutional Review minutes were considered for data collection and analysis. In order to supplement the above-mentioned method, 267 research participants involving students (undergraduate and postgraduate) and lecturers from the selected five South African universities, including members of the language authorities, were also invited to participate in the study. Self-administered survey questionnaires and face-to-face interviews were chosen as qualitative methods for data collection. From a dialectal point of view, this study indicated that all official standard languages were dialects before. However, these dialects were considered superior and elevated to the status of official languages because of socio-economic power and political influence. This article further recorded that the status type of language planning in the South African context is quite political in nature, not less linguistic. It was against this background that the researchers claim that there is no official standard language that was not a dialect before.
Five Grade 7 learners’ understanding of comprehension skills at a quintile 5 school in South Africa
Authors: Ntshikila Nomonde , Condy Janet L. , Meda Lawrence , Phillips Heather N.
Published: March 2022

Background: Research into language and reading scores show that South African learners struggle to read for meaning. Many local researchers report on the inadequate teaching training programmes. Teachers cannot teach basic comprehenion skills.Objectives: This research identifies a gap in the research and records an intervention programme designed to engage learners and develop their higher-order comprehension abilities. This research analyses responses from five learners who engaged in a variety of literacy activities to extend their zones of literacy abilities to become independent critical thinkers.Method: An interpretivist paradigm, within a qualitative approach, using a case study design was devised and implemented. Five struggling Grade 7 learners were purposively selected to participate in a 10-week intervention programme. Data were collected using pre-tests and post-tests and the learners’ own exercise books to assess their academic performance in written comprehensions, their daily comments on their motivation charts, information from two interviews and the researchers’ participant observation scheduled notes.Results: During the time of the intervention, all five Grade 7 learners gradually learned and began to use higher-order thinking skills.Conclusion: This small research project indicates that when a teacher explicitly planned and used a variety of literacy strategies to teach comprehension skills, not only did the learners enjoy the respectful discussions but this experience developed them into independent higher-order thinkers.
Goals and benefits of digital transformation projects: Insights into project selection criteria
Authors: Gertzen Warren M. , Van der Lingen Elma , Steyn Herman
Published: March 2022

Background: Digital transformation (DT) is an increasingly relevant concept for businesses to remain competitive. As DT projects are disruptive to an organisation and are significantly different from traditional information technology projects, it is important to understand the value that specific DT projects will bring to an organisation before they are implemented, so that DT project portfolios can be optimally managed.Aim: This study aims to determine the key goals and benefits of DT projects, as well as the selection criteria for DT projects in South African businesses. The study also explores the most influential technologies for driving the implementation of DT projects.Setting: South Africa is an emerging economy. The study was performed in the initial phases of nationwide lockdown owing to COVID-19.Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 leaders from South African businesses of varying sizes, but all in significant local markets. Content analysis using CAQDAS was used to analyse the primary data, using both inductive and deductive coding methods.Results: South African businesses use a combination of financial and non-financial project selection criteria across four main goals and benefit categories: customer experience, operational efficiency, business culture, and traditional project evaluation. The fifth proposed goal (new business models) was not used to evaluate DT projects. The most influential technologies that drive the selection of DT projects were data-related, such as data storage, data processing, machine learning, and data-driven decision-making.Conclusion: Companies in South Africa can use traditional project evaluation criteria together with several new criteria to determine the value of DT projects more holistically. This study also suggests several key practical takeaways for businesses that are aspiring to implement their own DT projects.
Evaluating the efficacy of an online depression screening tool in South Africa: A pilot study
Authors: Hassem Tasneem
Published: March 2022

Background: A global increase of 16% in depression rates from 1990 to 2019 highlights the alarming situation in relation to increase in depression. Research has indicated that this rate is likely to increase as a result of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. In South Africa, the depression life-time prevalence rate is 9.47%. However, the lack of access to mental healthcare services leads to people not receiving much needed information and care. The growing accessibility to the Internet for South Africans offers a solution for the screening and access to self-help information for depression. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD)-R was adapted for online usage and a website, mddsa.co.za, was piloted in this regard.Aim: This study reports on the efficacy of the online adapted CESD-R for use in South Africa by reporting on the reliability and criterion validity as well as the user friendliness of the website and the appropriateness of the instant feedback provided.Setting: The study was conducted in South Africa during COVID lockdown level 1 and 2.Methods: This study followed a quantitative, cross-sectional research design. A convenience sample of 21 individuals, above the age of 18, with a depression diagnosis and 86 individuals with no mental health diagnosis participated in the study. Participants accessed the screening instrument online at the website.Results: Internal consistency reliability coefficients exceeded 0.80. T-test and sensitivity and specificity results attested to the accuracy of the tool. All items contributed well to the instrument, including the items that were culturally specific to South Africa. Feedback from participants indicated that the tool was easily comprehensible, the website was user friendly and the instant feedback provided was appropriate.Conclusion: The online adapted CESD-R evidenced excellent reliability and criterion validity and was able to accurately screen for depression amongst South Africans. The website and the tool have the potential to be utilised to increase access to a screening instrument for individuals who display symptoms of depression and to enhance the opportunity for individuals to practise self-help.
Relative Risk of Gastrointestinal Cancers in Isfahan County, Iran, 2005–2010
Authors: Ahmadipanah Vahid , Mahaki Behzad , Nasirian Maryam , Zamani Maryam , Hassanzadeh Akbar
Published: March 2022

Background:

Spatial disease mapping is a widespread tool in ecological analysis to obtain accurate estimates for incidence, relative risks (RRs), prevalence, or mortality rates regarding to increase the incidence of gastrointestinal (GI) cancer in Isfahan in recent years. This study aimed to inspect the RR of GI cancer in Isfahan counties using empirical and full Bayesian model.

Materials and Methods:

Data of this ecological study were GI cancer cases which registered in health-care system of Isfahan University of Sciences during 2005–2010. We applied shared component model to model the spatial variation incidence rates of the GI cancers. We compared three models such as Gamma–Poisson, lognormal, and Besag, York, and Mollie (BYM) Bayesian. WinBUGS and GIS 10.1 software were used.

Results:

According to the fitted model, BYM model had best fit to the data. However, in general, ranks of RRs in most counties are identical; counties with higher RR in one map have higher RR in other maps. Geographical maps for three cancers in women were smoother than men. Isfahan has high RR in women, whereas this point is slightly different in men. Daran, FreidoonShahr, and Isfahan are cities which have high RR in esophagus, stomach, and colon cancer, respectively.

Conclusions:

Lognormal and BYM maps had very similar results. Despite some differences in estimation values, in nearly all maps arias Isfahan had high RR in GI cancer. It is recommended to promote the use of screening programs and increase awareness of people in high RR areas to reduce the incidence of GI cancer.
Comparison of Disease Profiles and Three-Month Outcomes of Patients with Neurological Disorders with and without COVID-19
Authors: Pillai Kanchana S. , Vibha Deepti , Gupta Pranjal , Sudheer Pachipala , Mishra Biswamohan , Oinam Rahul S. , Mohan Ayush , Tayade Kamalesh , Srivastava Padma , Tripathi Manjari , Srivastava Achal K. , Bhatia Rohit , Rajan Roopa , Pandit Awadh K. , Singh Rajesh K. , Elavarasi Arunmozhimaran , Agarwal Ayush , Gupta Anu , Das Animesh , Radhakrishnan Divya M. , Ramanujam Bhargavi , Soni Kapil D. , Aggarwal Richa , Wig Naveet , Trikha Anjan
Published: March 2022

Objective:

Neurological emergencies saw a paradigm shift in approach during the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic with the challenge to manage patients with and without COVID-19. We aimed to compare the various neurological disorders and 3 months outcome in patients with and without SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods:

In an ambispective cohort study design, we enrolled patients with and without SARS CoV-2 infection coming to a medical emergency with neurological disorders between April 2020 and September 2020. Demographic, clinical, biochemical, and treatment details of these patients were collected and compared. Their outcomes, both in-hospital and at 3 months were assessed by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS).

Results:

Two thirty-five patients (235) were enrolled from emergency services with neurological disorders. Of them, 81 (34.5%) were COVID-19 positive. The mean (SD) age was 49.5 (17.3) years, and the majority of the patients were male (63.0%). The commonest neurological diagnosis was acute ischemic stroke (AIS) (43.0%). The in-hospital mortality was higher in the patients who were COVID-19 positive (COVID-19 positive: 29 (35.8%) versus COVID-19 negative: 12 (7.8%), P value: <0.001). The 3 months telephonic follow-up could be completed in 73.2% of the patients (142/194). Four (12.1%) deaths occurred on follow-up in the COVID-19 positive versus fifteen (13.8%) in the COVID-19 negative patients (P value: 1.00). The 3-month mRS was worse in the COVID-19 positive group (P value <0.001). However, this was driven by higher in-hospital morbidity and mortality in COVID-19 positive patients.

Conclusion:

Patients with neurological disorders presenting with COVID-19 infection had worse outcomes, including in-hospital and 3 months disability.